News

Reduced air quality alert over hazard reduction fires

RESIDENTS are being warned reduced air quality may result as fire agencies, land managers and private landholders take advantage of the favourable weather conditions and carry out vital hazard reduction burns.

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner Bob Rogers said prescribed burns would be conducted across the Sydney, Hunter Valley and Newcastle regions from tomorrow.
“We’re experiencing light, calm winds that are ideal for these burns; however, it could see smoke linger across certain areas up until mid next week,” he said.
“The smoke may result in reduced air quality.”
Commissioner Rogers said it was important to take advantage of every hazard reduction opportunity as wet weather and unfavourable conditions resulted in the postponement of several controlled burns across the State over the last few months.
“It is crucial we make the most of these optimum conditions as these planned burns will reduce fuel loads across nearly 5,000 hectares providing protection to thousands of homes and people,” he said.
People in smoke affected areas should avoid outdoor activity, close doors and windows, keep pets in a protected area, remove washing from clotheslines and if driving, slow down and turn on headlights.
Asthmatics and people with respiratory or heart conditions should take appropriate precautions, follow treatment and management plans and keep medication on hand.
You should only call triple zero (000) if you see an unattended fire.