Staying safe from bushfire smoke

Bushfire smoke can harm health, causing breathing issues and coughing.

It's worse for vulnerable groups like the elderly, young, and those with health conditions. These include asthma, lung conditions, heart and cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and pregnancy.

If you're affected

If you're affected by bushfire smoke, you should try to reduce your exposure as much as possible.

You should:

  • avoid physical outdoor activity
  • stay indoors, with windows and doors closed where possible
  • set your air conditioner to recirculate if using
  • follow your asthma action plan and get immediate medical advice or care if needed
  • keep hydrated.

Get help

If you have an urgent smoke-related health issue, get medical help by calling 000.

If you feel unwell, contact your general practitioner or Health Direct on 1800 022 222.

Check air quality

If you're concerned about the air quality in your area, you can monitor it on the AirRater app.

Find out how to get and use it on the AirRater website.


Give feedback about this page.

Share this page:

URL copied!