Bushfires
Bushfires - what you need to know about bushfires and your health, including how to provide assistance, cleaning up and staying safe.
Dust storms are caused when strong, turbulent winds greater than 30 km per hour carry fine particles of dust from the surrounding area. Particles that can be picked up during dust storms include:
Dust storms are short events that often occur after periods of intense heat (for example, drought or fire), over cleared land or during a cold front.
Health impacts of dust can vary and may cause irritation to the eyes, nose and skin, which can be alleviated by washing the area well with water.
For more susceptible people, dust and pollen can cause a range of issues including difficulty in breathing.
If you have asthma, or another chronic respiratory condition, and you experience chest tightness, wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath, you should follow your prescribed action plan.
If you are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call triple zero (000).
While all people may feel discomfort, people with pre-existing illnesses such as respiratory or heart-related problems may have existing symptoms aggravated.
Those most at risk are:
People who live in Port Pirie will be more vulnerable to lead exposure during high wind days.
Dust storms can reduce visibility. Extra caution should be taken when driving a vehicle.
If visibility is low, reduce speed and turn on your vehicle’s headlights. If visibility is too low to drive, park in a safe place to avoid collisions and turn on your hazard lights. Do not park under trees.
If your car has air conditioning, reduce the incoming dust by switching the air intake to recirculate.