Southern Moreton Bay Island (SMBI) residents are urged to prepare for substantial smoke levels expected from around midnight as a result of planned backburning to strengthen North Stradbroke Island fire containment lines.
While there are no fires currently burning on Russell Island, Macleay Island, Lamb Island or Karragarra Island and there is no immediate fire threat for these islands, it is important residents remain vigilant ahead of an expected wind change to the north, north-east around midnight.
SMBI residents are asked:
- to remain vigilant
- to stay up to date with the latest fire information through the Redland City Council and QFES Facebook pages and websites, as well as local radio.
- to read the “protect yourself in smoky conditions” tips below
- to review their own emergency plans
QFES has advised it is today conducting back-burning operations at four separate locations on North Stradbroke Island this afternoon and overnight to increase buffer zones and strengthen containment lines.
Local Disaster Recovery Committee Chair and Redland City Deputy Mayor Alan Beard said flying embers had been reported on the SMBIs and two spot fires were quickly extinguished by fire crews on Russell Island overnight on Saturday.
“Multi-agency fire crews will remain on Russell Island today and tonight and will continue to monitor the situation,” Cr Beard said. “Queensland Fire and Rescue’s urban officers, Redland City Council fire officers and SES officers are working together with Russell Island Rural Fire Brigade on the island.”
Smoke may also currently be affecting areas of the mainland from Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast.
Anyone concerned their property is under threat should call triple zero (000) immediately.
Protect yourself in smoky conditions
Signs of smoke irritation include itchy eyes, sore throat, runny nose and coughing.
Further symptoms can include wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.
Affected residents are advised to:
- minimise your physical activity outdoors.
- when indoors, keep the windows and doors closed. Switch air conditioners to ‘recycle or re-circulate’
- if your home gets too hot for comfort or is letting in a lot of smoky air, try to visit an air-conditioned community library or shopping centre (if it is safe to do so)
- when indoors, avoid other sources of air pollution including smoke from cigarettes and woodstoves
- if there is a break in smoky conditions, take the opportunity to ventilate your home to improve indoor air quality
- anyone with a lung or heart condition should keep at least seven days worth of medication on hand. Those with asthma should follow their personal asthma treatment plan
- anyone experiencing breathing problems or chest pain should seek medical advice immediately
- listen to your local radio station or watch your television for updates on fire and smoke conditions in the area
- individuals who are particularly sensitive to smoky conditions should consider temporarily moving away from the smoke-affected area and staying with a friend or relative.
Source: Queensland Health http://www.health.qld.gov.au/disaster/documents/bushfire-smoke.pdf
Regular updated information is provided through the Redland City Council and QFES Facebook pages, as well as their websites www.redland.qld.gov.au and www.fire.qld.gov.au, and through local radio stations.
