A fire broke out at Surf Beach tip near Batemans Bay this afternoon at around 2.15pm. Fire crews were quickly on the scene.
Above: Status of fire as at 18:40pm (source)
Eurobodalla Council owns and manages the facility and a spokesperson said no one was injured in the blaze.
“We thank NSW Fire and Rescue and the RFS for their prompt response. We understand there is no immediate threat and the fire is now under control. Fire crews and NSW Police remain onsite monitoring the situation.
“The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage.
“There is a lot of smoke in the air as a result of the fire, and we suggest that nearby residents keep their windows closed and stay inside out of the smoke until it’s had a chance to clear.
“We also ask motorists to take care driving in the vicinity of Ridge Road where the smoke is quite dense at the moment.”
Southern NSW Local Health District advises people with chronic respiratory conditions living in areas currently affected by smoke from the fire at the Surf Beach landfill to stay indoors if levels of smoke pollution increase.
The fire at the landfill may result in a large amount of smoke particles in the air, even great distances from the fires.
Director of Public Health, Tracey Oakman, warned that the health effects from breathing fire smoke vary between people, ranging from irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, to
serious aggravation of existing lung conditions such as asthma and emphysema.
“Not everyone who is exposed to the smoke will have health problems and most healthy adults who experience symptoms will recover quickly and not suffer any long-term
consequences,” Mrs Oakman said.
“However smoke pollution can affect people with lung disease for many days after smoke is inhaled. Therefore it is important people with respiratory conditions closely monitor their
symptoms and take appropriate action as required.
"Asthma sufferers and people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should follow their action plans. If symptoms get worse, sufferers need to seek medical advice.
"People with asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions should not engage in vigorous exercise and if possible should stay in air-conditioned premises, where filtration systems can
help to reduce smoke particles in the air.
“Keep houses closed as much as possible when there is heavy smoke around and reduce your outside activity when smoke is evident,” Mrs Oakman said.
