PARKS and Wildlife Service at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions has issued a smoke alert for areas between Two Rocks and Mandurah and the Perth Hills.
The smoke is a result of prescribed burns and is expected to clear by tomorrow afternoon.
The Parks and Wildlife Service is planning two large prescribed burns in the Perth Hills area over the coming days, which may produce further smoke over the metropolitan area.
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READ NOWDepartment of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions told Community News last week it would take advantage of every opportunity to undertake prescribed burning ahead of the summer bushfire season.
A DBCA spokeswoman said while a dry start to autumn limited the department’s ability to kick off its prescribed burning program, burn offs were in full swing following recent rain.
“The department’s annual financial year target for prescribed burning in the south-west of the state is 200,000ha,” she said.
“So far the department has burnt 138,168ha.
“The impacts of smoke and weather conditions are vital considerations when deciding when and where to undertake burns.”
Today’s burns are 25km south-east of Mundaring and 25km south-east of Dwellingup and have been identified as high priority, reducing fuel loads and assisting in protecting the towns of Mundaring, Sawyers Valley, Chidlow and Dwellingup.
If smoke is particularly thick, Parks and Wildlife Service recommends people shut doors and windows and turn off airconditioners.
Smoke may reduce visibility on some roads and motorists should take care, turn on headlights and travel at appropriate speeds when travelling through smoky areas.
People with asthma and pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses should follow their pre-prepared treatment plan.
People with conditions exacerbated by smoke should take precautions in line with their medical advice for these circumstances.
Visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au for more.
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