Question:
A comment is sought on concerns raised by local residents following the recent fire at Lower Melville Wood near Ladybank.
What is the public health advice for local people? Are there any short or long-term health concerns?
Response:
Dr Joy Tomlinson, Director of Public Health, said: “We understand the concerns raised by residents in the area surrounding the fire, and the East Region Health Protection Team has been working as part of the multi-agency response to assess and advise on any potential health impacts for those living nearby.
“We are advising people to follow the guidance issued by responding agencies, including keeping windows and doors closed if they are in the immediate vicinity of the smoke, and avoiding outdoor activity in affected areas where possible. This will help reduce the risk of irritation to the eyes and throat, coughing, and other symptoms that can be associated with smoke exposure.
“These effects can be more pronounced for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, so it is important that those who rely on inhalers or other medication continue to carry and use these as prescribed. Anyone experiencing symptoms as a result of smoke exposure can seek medical advice from local healthcare services as they would ordinarily. Alternatively, advice is available via NHS inform or by calling NHS 24 on 111.
"There is no indication of any significant long-term health risk to the wider public. As with any incident of this nature, the situation is being monitored closely in partnership with local and national agencies, and public health advice will be updated if required.”
[ENDS]
