2 February 2024 - Fire Near Dargaville Causing Smoke Exposure
2 Febuary 2024
Residents of Dargaville are advised to be aware of smoke and ash in the area due to a vegetation fire west of the township.
Currently a north westerly is blowing in the area causing smoke and ash to be present.
Nearby residents who may be affected by the smoke and ash should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise. Residents are advised to call Healthline on 0800 611 116 if they have any related health concerns or experience any respiratory difficulties as a result of the smoke and ash.
The fire started around 6.35pm on Thursday and is burning in wetlands, meaning it may take some time to extinguish – so smoke will likely continue to be present during this time.
Managing smoke from wildfires
- When wildfires occur there is potential for those people who are sensitive to smoke or have respiratory challenges to experience coughing, shortness of breath or eye, nose and throat irritation.
- People likely to be most affected include those with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children and the elderly, however, smoke in the air can be an irritant for anyone.
- Whenever possible, stay out of the smoke and stay indoors when it is practical and safe.
- Close all doors and windows to reduce smoke coming into your home.
- Seal gaps under doors or around windows and wall vents with towels, blankets or plastic.
- When indoors:
- Use air conditioners with HEPA filters; if the air conditioner has no filter, use it on recirculation mode only (turn off temperature modulation)
- Avoid other sources of indoor air pollution (such as smoking, vaping, burning candles, using wood burners or stirring up fine dust by sweeping or vacuuming).
- Consider bringing pets inside away from smoke or heat.
- When smoke outside clears up, open windows and doors to flush with fresh air, vacuum any ash and dust, and wash any homegrown fruit and vegetables before eating.
- If the air in your home is uncomfortable, consider going to an air-conditioned building like a library or shopping centre for a break if it is safe to do so.
- Do not exercise outdoors until the air is clear.
- For further information visit: Response to wildfires – Guidelines for Public Health Officers(external link)
Dr Julia Peters, Medical Officer of Health
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