Warning of ash and smoke contamination

HEALTH: The Hawke's Bay District Health Board are warning people who live in fire affected areas to take precautionary measures due to ash and smoke contamination. PHOTO/WARREN BUCKLAND.

The Hawke's Bay District Health Board are asking people who live in fire affected areas to take precaution due to potential smoke and ash contamination.

Those returning to properties should inspect the roof for evidence of ash or dead animals. Ash is a chemical hazard and if it is found in a water tank or on the roof it must be discarded.

This can be done by disconnecting the down pipe to the water tank and cleaning the roof.

A Hawke's Bay District Health Board spokesperson said boiling the water will not remove this chemical hazard.

"If there is a taste or odour to the water, it should be assumed to be contaminated and not used for drinking, preparing food, personal hygiene (cleaning teeth, bathing) or water for animals."

If there is contamination the water tank must also be cleaned and the district health board recommend getting a professional cleaner in.

People should also wash fruit and vegetables from the garden before cooking or eating raw as well as puha or watercress gathered.

With regards to cleaning the home or workplace the area should be ventilated by opening all the doors and windows and food surfaces with ash deposits should be wiped.

Any affected clothing should be washed normally and air dried outside so any irritants that affects sensitive skins will be removed.

Smoke also affects personal health and wellbeing and may irritate the eyes, nose, throat and airways.

Symptoms include runny or sore eyes, dry or sore throat, sore nose, cough, tightness of the chest or difficulty breathing.

In healthy people, most symptoms disappear soon after exposure to smoke ends and do not cause long-term health problems.

Smoke odour may also persist in the area and inside your building for several days. This should not cause any ongoing harm but if you have health effects, such as coughing, sore eyes, sore throat or shortness of breath, then please see your doctor.

If your symptoms persist, phone Healthline (0800 611 116) for free 24-hour health advice or see your doctor.