The wind has changed on an out of control bushfire affecting the Bunkers Hill, blowing thick smoke right over central Ballarat - meaning residents, especially those with asthma, lung and heart conditions, should stay indoors to minimise smoke inhalation.
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It is also recommended that people should avoid any physical activity.
Here is more advice, courtesy of the Better Health website:
- Avoid physical activity outdoors (exercise causes more fine particles to be breathed deeper into the lungs).
- People with pre-existing lung or heart conditions in particular, should rest as much as possible and keep away from the smoke.
- Anyone with a heart or lung condition should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor and keep at least five days supply of medication on hand.
- People with asthma should follow their personal asthma plan. When smoke is in the air, but a fire is not directly threatening you, stay indoors and close all windows and doors.
- If you operate an air conditioner during smoky conditions, switch it to 'recycle' or 'recirculate' to reduce smoke coming inside your home.
- If you do not have an air conditioner, take steps to reduce heat stress especially the very young, and people who are unwell or elderly.
- If your home gets too hot to be comfortable, or is letting in outside air, try to take an air-conditioned break at a local community library or shopping centre.
- If there is a break in smoky conditions, take the opportunity to air out your home to improve indoor air quality.
- When indoors, minimise other sources of air pollution such as cigarette smoke, burning candles, using unflued gas appliances or woodstoves and stirring up fine dust from sweeping or vacuuming.
- During extended, very smoky conditions, people who are sensitive to smoke should consider temporarily staying with a friend or relative living outside the smoke-affected area.
- Outdoor sporting events may also be postponed by event organisers.
The emergency warning covers Bunkers Hill, Haddon, Lucas, Ross Creek, Smythes Creek.
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