CFS issues smoke alert for Upper Hermitage in Mount Lofty Ranges

Crews rushed to the area north of Adelaide after smoke was sighted by residents just after 3pm.

A bushfire in the Mount Lofty Ranges was contained after an entire firefighting fleet were sent to battle the blaze, but residents have been urged to stay indoors and avoid smoke.

Just after 3:30pm, the Country Fire Service issued a Leave Now message for an “uncontrolled” scrub fire in Upper Hermitage that had grown to 18 hectares in less than an hour.

Water chopper bombs a fire at Upper Hermitage in the Mount Lofty Ranges.Thursday,February,22,2024.Picture Mark Brake

The fire was burning in an easterly direction towards Lower Hermitage and Inglewood, with a total of 21 vehicles and seven aircraft dispatched to battle the flames.

Just before 5pm, the fire was contained but the CFS have urged residents to stay indoors to avoid smoke inhalation.

**WATCH AND ACT – Issued for Upper Hermitage in the Mount Lofty Ranges** CFS: “Leave now. This bushfire may threaten your safety. Check that the path is clear and go to a safer place. Do not enter this area as conditions are dangerous. The Upper Hermitage bushfire is… pic.twitter.com/rPonN6E3wU

— 7NEWS Adelaide (@7NewsAdelaide) February 22, 2024

A CFS spokesman said “a whole fleet” had been sent in response to the alert, with three firebombers and two observational aircraft flying to the scene just after 3pm.

As of 5pm, CFS has advised:

• Stay indoors as much as possible.

• Close windows, doors, and air vents (this may only assist with reduced exposure for hours or a few days, as outside air will eventually enter the home).

• Use appropriate air conditioner settings in the home and vehicles to prevent outside air coming in.

• Spend time in airconditioned venues, like cinemas, shopping centres and libraries.

• Reduce indoor sources of air pollution, such as smoking, cooking with gas, burning candles or vacuum cleaning.

• Avoid vigorous outdoor activities, especially if you have asthma or other chronic lung or heart conditions.

• People with existing heart or lung conditions, people over 65 years of age, children 14 years and younger (especially those with asthma), pregnant and breastfeeding people and people with diabetes are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke and should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor.