The Fleurieu copped a double whammy of bushfire smoke last week, with both the massive eastern states fires and the devastating Kangaroo Island fires affecting air quality.

Although the worst of the smoke has now cleared it still lingers in the atmosphere and with the fires still burning, flareups and wind changes could cause the air quality to drop again.

The South Australian department for Health and Wellbeing has warned that smoke could pose a serious threat to health, particularly for vulnerable people with lung or heart conditions.

Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier says the combined effects of recent hot weather and poor air quality from bushfires means people should take extra precautions.

“We are urging people to stay indoors where possible, avoid physical exercise outdoors and reduce their exposure to smoky air.

“People should keep windows and doors shut and ventilate the house once the some clears.

“If possible avoid running evaporative air conditioners, which draw in external air.  Switch your car air conditioning to recirculate.

“Smoke particles can aggravate existing health problems such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma and heart conditions.

“Other vulnerable groups include people 65 years and older, young children and infants, pregnant women and people with diabetes.

People with asthma and other respiratory conditions have been advised to follow their action plans and carry their prescribed reliever medication at all times.

Symptoms of smoke inhalation may include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest tightness, heart palpitations, fatigue, itchy or burning eyes, throat irritation and a runny nose.

Anyone having trouble breathing should seek medical attention.

More information can be found on the SA Health website.

Three-quarters of Kangaroo Island is still under bushfire advice, with the Ravine fire remaining active,

For updates visit the CFS website or phone the Bushfire Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.