NSW Health has been advised by the Office of Environment and Heritage that Sydney is predicted to experience poor air quality over the weekend due to smoke particles from hazard reduction burning.

NSW Health reminds people that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of particle pollution.

Dr Richard Broome, Deputy Director, Environmental Health Branch, NSW Health, warns those with lung disease, and heart disease to closely monitor their symptoms.

“Particle levels are likely to be higher outdoors than indoors, so people sensitive to fine particles should limit the time they spend outside” advised Dr Broome.

Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and take their relieving medication where necessary. If symptoms get worse, asthma sufferers need to seek medical advice.

Fine particles can also irritate the lungs of healthy adults, so it is best to avoid any prolonged outdoor exercise.

People can have air quality alerts sent to them via SMS or email by visiting the Office of Environment and Heritage website and subscribing to Air Quality Index daily forecasts.

For more information on local air quality forecast and hourly air quality updates, visit the Office of Environment and Heritage.

For more information about air pollution and health, visit Air quality.