THICK clouds of smoke over Ballarat and surrounding areas this week are from four planned burns to reduce bush and grassfire fuel and not something to be concerned about, according to fire fighting authorities.
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The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning has taken advantage of the temperate conditions to carry out burns near the Canadian State Forest and north of Ballarat.
Smoke will be visible as far north as Creswick and as far south as Napoleons, according to a department statement, but are a necessity to reduce the threat of bush and grassfires.
"If there is no wind to clear the air, smoke can linger for a few days after a burn," said DELWP Midlands district fire manager Merydth Whitehead.
"We understand smoke may cause concern for some people but it's important that experienced fire crews take the opportunity while conditions are right so we can reduce bushfire risk for communities.
"The weather is the biggest challenge for the planned burn program. We can only burn when the weather, and conditions like wind, temperature and fuel moisture levels are right. We need to take advantage of any window of opportunity that occurs at this time of year."
Monday's fires were at Swinglers Road and Shuttleworth, north east of Ballarat, and Canadian.
Planned burns for Tuesday near Beaufort and in the Bangamie area near Meredith have been postponed due to changes in the weather conditions. DELWP and Parks Victoria fire crews will patrol the areas burned on Monday.
Nearby residents are advised to steer clear of areas where burns are taking place or which have been recently burned. Walking tracks, camping grounds and car parks may be restricted, while road users are urged to show care due to reduced visibility.
People suffering ill effects due to smoke exposure can call a nurse on call on 1300 606 024.
