WITH fire restrictions easing in some parts of the state, and calm autumn conditions, hundreds of private, agricultural and planned burns are expected to take place in the coming weeks.

While current conditions are ideal for burning, weather patterns may cause smoke to linger over parts of the state overnight and through to early morning.

Victoria’s chief environmental scientist Professor Mark Patrick Taylor said Environment Protection Authority (EPA) understands smoke from any source, including planned burns and private burn-offs can cause health concerns.

“Be prepared by watching for FFMVic planned burn notifications and by checking the air quality for your area through our EPA’s AirWatch air monitoring system,” he said.

“Your nose is also an excellent smoke detector. If you can smell smoke, take the necessary precautions to protect your health.”

For the latest information about when and where planned burns are happening nearby, visit plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au

If you see or smell smoke outside, you should reduce your exposure to smoke by staying indoors and closing your windows and doors – but only if it’s safe to do so.

Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s ‘Smoke and your health’ webpage at epa.vic.gov.au