A light haze drifted over Warrnambool around 10am, triggering a false alarm from a concerned resident in the Mailors Flat area.

A CFA spokesman said  people should still be vigilant about looking out for fires.

Warrnambool City Council senior environmental health officer Mark Handby told The Standard residents should take appropriate precautions with the increasing presence of smoke across the region. 

"Bushfire smoke can reduce air quality and may affect people's health," Mr Handby said. 

"Children, the elderly and people with pre-existing illnesses such as heart or lung conditions including asthma are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.

"We recommend avoiding physical activity outdoors, keeping away from the smoke, switching air-conditioners to recirculate and those with asthma should follow their asthma plan.

"Smoke symptoms include itchy eyes, irritated throat, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing."

Mr Handby said if anybody was experiencing smoke related symptoms they should seek medical advice.