It was a hazy evening on Thursday, December 7 as smoke from a bush fire north of Port Macquarie stretched to parts of the Manning and Great Lakes.
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South easterly winds pushed the smoke to areas such as Moorland, Taree, Krambach and Nabiac.
The bush fire is burning in the Limeburners Creek National Park north of Port Macquarie and south of Crescent Head.
The fire has burned approximately 6008 hectares and is being controlled.
A spokesperson for the Rural Fire Service Mid Coast said it was unusual for the smoke to drift that far from the fire.
Smoke produced from the fire will be visible across the Mid North Coast today so the Rural Fire Service has advised residents to only report new unattended fires (not just sightings of smoke in this area) to Triple Zero (000).
Several Rural Fire Service crews from the Manning will assist northern teams with the fire today.
How to handle the smoke
NSW Health reminded people that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of air pollution and excessive smoke.
If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.
Asthma sufferers need to follow their asthma action plan and take their relieving medication where necessary.
If symptoms get worse, seek medical advice. Further advice is available from the Asthma Foundation website.
Tips to stay safe when smoke is in the area
- Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke from entering your home.
- Remove washing from clotheslines.
- Ensure pets have a protected area.
- If you’re driving through a smoky area, slow down, keep your windows up and turn your headlights on.
- Don’t call Triple Zero just to report that it’s smoky. Save Triple Zero for emergencies.