Health officials have advised Oldham residents to avoid areas affected by smoke from the Dovestone wildfire, and to stay indoors with doors and windows closed where smoke is visible.

Anyone who needs to travel through smoky areas should keep vehicle windows closed, switch air vents to recirculate and turn off systems that draw air from outside.

The smoke can irritate eyes, skin and airways, causing coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest discomfort. People with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should follow their prescribed management plans, such as an asthma action plan, and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

When smoke conditions improve, residents may open doors and windows to cool and ventilate homes. But because conditions can change quickly and smoke may return, it is important to continue monitoring official advice and only ventilate when it is safe to do so.