Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has deployed two mobile air quality monitors to a battery fire in Moorabool after a request to attend by the Incident Controller, Country Fire Authority.

Based on smoke modelling conducted by EPA scientists, air monitoring equipment has been deployed where there was potential to impact the local community and not at the site of the fire.

EPA’s air monitors have shown that there has been good air quality in the local community.

Data collected by incident air monitors provides useful information about the impacts of a pollution event and is used to make decisions about what agencies do next. Data collected by recently deployed incident air monitors is also showing on EPA AirWatch (as Moorabool Site 1 and Moorabool Site 2) which gives the latest air quality conditions and health advice.

EPA monitors will remain in place until the Incident Controller deems they are no longer required.

EPA officers also continue to provide advice to the Incident Controller about potential fire water run off that can impact local waterways.

For community:

If you can smell smoke, that’s the time to take any health measures, especially if your household includes people with pre-existing conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women or older people.

People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor.

Health information:

• If you need advice for exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
• Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).

For the latest community advice from Emergency Management Victoria the community should visit: emergency.vic.gov.au