MOSS Vale doctor Vince Roche believes the smoke engulfing the Highlands is unlikely to cause respiratory problems.

The Bowral District Hospital has indicated a few people had come into the emergency department complaining of difficulty breathing but Dr Roche says it’s no different to a summer’s day.

“The large particles in the smoke that make it visible are not harmful,” he said.

“Even if the smoke gets thicker it is still unlikely to cause problems.

“The respiratory problems arising are no different to a summers day when the pollen count is high.”

Dr Roche advises people suffering problems not to panic and to stay out of the smoke.

With the extreme weather conditions expected, the Ambulance Service is urging residents to follow a number of precaution to keep cool.

Always stay well hydrated with fluids such as water, avoid alcohol, use plenty of sunscreen and keep cool as possible.

Never leave children or animals unattended in cars as the heat can become life threatening.