Bushfires are a very real issue facing residents around the world.
The irreparable damage caused by bushfires can be very traumatic. But there’s a less spoken of hidden health hazard related to fires: smoke.
Over the last few days the conditions have been ideal for bush regeneration, causing a pall of smoke and haze to hang over areas in Sydney. This smoke has the added issue of a lack of visibility. Drivers in particular need to take care when driving in such conditions.
Usually, Sydney’s air quality is considered good to very good, according to the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, which has an air quality data index which is updated every hour. See http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/aqms/aqitable.htm for more information about your current air quality.
Bushfires can result in a large amount of smoke particles and pollens which are easily transported throughout the state by wind. Increased particulate matter in the air irritate airways and have been shown to have adverse health effects on cardio-respiratory health.
The particles are graded at PM10µm and PM2.5µm. The larger particles are usually trapped in the nose and throat and swallowed. The smaller particles are unpleasant, unhealthy and have nowhere else to go except your lungs and cause irritation.
Symptoms related to smoke irritation include:
acute itchy or burning eyes and throat,
runny nose,
coughing or shortness of breath,
Smoke irritation is of particular concern to those with existing illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, hay fever, allergies and lung conditions as these can be further aggravated. Children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions are most vulnerable and need to take extra precautions. Even people who are otherwise healthy can be adversely affected by high bush fire pollution levels as well and are encouraged to avoid running or exercising outside.
It is advised by NSW Health that those at risk from bushfire smoke should stay inside with doors and windows closed. It is also advised that you drink plenty of water, try to stay cool, don’t exercise outside and that asthma sufferers should follow their asthma action plan.
Where possible, the best treatment is to avoid polluted environments and find cleaner air. Air conditioned rooms also provide welcome relief, whether at home or friend’s, in the shopping centres or even in the movie theatre.
Considered hiring an air purifier? Breathe easier, sleep soundly and feel better by improving your indoor air quality.
With the Mitey Fresh air purifiers you get round the clock protection which effectively removes airborne pollutants and particulate matter when you need it most.
For more info about hazardous Sydney air quality or air purifier hire please contact us today on (02) 9986 3432.
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