1800 278 462
Wood Heaters, Woodfires and Bushfires
Warning: A number of hazard reduction burns are scheduled for NSW including the Greater Sydney Area over the coming days and smoke is expected to remain over parts of Sydney until early next week. If smoke is a trigger for your asthma and you’d like to learn more, book a call with an Asthma Educator
Wood heaters, woodfires (including hazard burns) and bushfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These particles are tiny in size and when inhaled are able to go deep into your lungs, causing inflammation (redness and swelling). The particles can also enter your blood stream which can affect other parts of the body like the heart and immune systems.
Bushfire smoke can produce large amounts of extremely poor air quality. This causes harmful effects to the health and well-being of thousands of Australians. Woodfire and wood heater smoke, like bushfire smoke, is a type of air pollution and not good for your health. It can lead to more asthma symptoms and attacks.
If smoke is a known trigger for you or a loved one, do the best you can to avoid wood heater, woodfire or bushfire smoke. It is recommended that you always keep your reliever with you and use your preventer as stated in your Asthma Action Plan. This is especially important during bushfire season or if you live in an area where wood heater or woodfire smoke is present.
Are woodfire heaters or fire pits triggering your or your family’s asthma? We’ve created a friendly and informative flyer and social media graphic for you to download and use, so you can help others understand the dangers of smoke. Download the flyer and social tile below.
DOWNLOAD THE AIRSMART APP
The AirSmart App provides live air quality information so that you can change your plans if pollution levels are high. If you have asthma, this app is especially useful to plan your day or understand why you might be getting symptoms.
