Bushfires can ignite quickly and without warning in Western Australia when dry vegetation combines with hot, windy conditions.
Recent data from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) shows there were more than 5,000 bushfires recorded statewide during 2024-25. With the fire-risk season typically peaking in early summer until early autumn, people living with asthma or COPD need to plan ahead.
Knowing what to do early can make a big difference if smoke or fires affect your area. By preparing now, you’ll be ready to protect yourself or loved ones if air quality deteriorates or a fire emergency happens.
A serious health hazard
Bushfire smoke can affect anyone, but it is especially risky for people with respiratory conditions such as COPD or asthma.
Smoke contains a mix of tiny and larger particles.
- Tiny particles (as small as 2.5 micrometres) can travel deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and making breathing more difficult.
- Larger particles can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and upper airways.
Smoke may also contain harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can further worsen breathing problems.
How bushfire smoke affects asthma
Smoke exposure during bushfires can significantly worsen asthma. When smoke enters the air, it can trigger symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and throat irritation. These effects may persist for several days after exposure.
During the 2019-20 bushfires in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, it was estimated that smoke was responsible for around 400 deaths and thousands of hospitalisations.
Approximately 1,300 emergency‑department presentations for asthma were directly linked to smoke exposure during that period.
People who are more at risk
According to a survey undertaken by Asthma Australia, children with asthma were the most affected. As their airways are smaller and their bodies are still developing, young people were twice as likely to require emergency care or hospitalisation during periods of heavy smoke.
Almost half (43%) of respondents under 17 reported missing school due to their symptoms. Smoke exposure can also increase anxiety, disrupt daily routines, and limit participation in sport and social activities.
Older adults and pregnant women are also particularly vulnerable. They may experience stronger reactions to smoke and often take longer to recover from flare-ups.
Older adults may have multiple health conditions which can worsen when air quality is poor. Pregnant women may notice increased breathlessness or fatigue and should follow their healthcare team’s advice.
What you can do to prepare
Taking early steps to protect yourself and loved ones can reduce stress and limit the impact of smoke. You can prepare by:
- Reviewing or updating your Asthma Action Plan with your GP or Respiratory Care WA.
- Knowing the steps in Asthma First Aid.
- Talking with your family so everyone understands what to do in an emergency.
- Subscribing to alerts from DFES through the Emergency WA website, app, social media channels or your local news radio network.
- Ensuring you have enough medication and that your prescriptions will last through the Christmas period and holiday closures.
- Bring your washing in early so the smoke does not carry indoors and stay in the fabric.
- Taking your preventer medication daily as prescribed by your doctor.
If smoke is expected in your area
If smoke is forecast or already affecting your area, remember the CALM steps:
C – Close doors and windows
A – Activate your Asthma Action Plan
L – Locate your reliever medication
M – Monitor your symptoms
Preparing helps keep you safe
Bushfire smoke can be challenging, but some preparation now can make a big difference. By planning ahead and knowing how to respond, you can protect your lungs and your family.
Request an appointment with your GP or a Respiratory Care WA respiratory nurse educator if you have questions about managing asthma during bushfire conditions. We’re here to help.
