Smoke haze Melbourne: How to stay safe and healthy

The smoke haze that has blanketed Melbourne in recent days has raised concerns about air quality and health risks. While the situation is expected to improve in the coming days, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from the harmful effects of smoke.

Smoke contains a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and can also lead to more serious health problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.

Children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of smoke. If you have any of these conditions, it's especially important to take precautions to avoid exposure.

If you are exposed to smoke, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of health problems:

• Stay indoors as much as possible.
• Close windows and doors to keep smoke out.
• Use an air purifier to remove smoke particles from the air.
• Wear a mask when you go outside.
• Avoid strenuous activity outdoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

If you experience any health problems, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or coughing, see a doctor immediately.

The smoke haze is expected to clear in the coming days, but it's important to continue to take precautions until the air quality improves. By following these tips, you can help to protect your health and well-being.