NSW Health is particularly reminding the elderly and parents and carers of young children to stay inside with doors and windows shut, where possible, and postpone outdoor activities.

Dr Kerry Chant, Chief Health Officer at NSW Health, said that people with underlying heart and lung conditions should also try to spend more time indoors whenever the smoke is lingering.

“People in high-risk groups should also avoid strenuous activity. People with existing lung and heart conditions can also protect themselves by following their disease management plans,” Dr Chant said.

“If you’ve got asthma and are prescribed a preventer puffer, it’s really important to be taking it at the moment. And make sure you keep your reliever medication to hand.

“The best way to reduce exposure to smoke is to stay indoors with the doors and windows shut.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard also urged people to follow NSW Health’s advice on precautionary measures until the smoke clears.

“When there are public health issues like this in play, it is important people follow the expert advice of our many agencies coordinating the response efforts.”

In case of emergency always remember to dial Triple Zero.

Up-to-date information on air quality is available on the NSW Air Quality website:

https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/aqms/aqi.htm

For more information, visit the NSW Health air quality web page at:

http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/bushfire-smoke.aspx

More information can be found at the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat