Super Rugby create bushfire smoke policy as Canberra temperatures set to surpass 40 degrees

Super Rugby has created safety guidelines around air quality as bushfires burn near Canberra just two days before the Brumbies kick off their season.

Officials will monitor the air quality index and real-time measurement of particular matter levels at Canberra Stadium on Friday when temperatures are forecast to hit 41 degrees.

The Brumbies moved their preseason to Newcastle for 10 days earlier this month after bushfire smoke blanketed the national capital and made training unsafe.

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There are currently out-of-control bushfires burning in the ACT's Namadgi National Park and within just five kilometres of residents.

Big Bash League, W-League and WNBL matches have all been abandoned in Canberra this summer due to bushfire smoke.

Super Rugby officials emphasised player welfare is the priority and they will not be putting their health at risk.

"It has been an extraordinary summer in Australia to date and we deeply sympathise with all those individuals and communities who have been impacted by the bushfires," SANZAAR boss Andy Marinos said in a statement.

"Naturally, the continued welfare of our players and indeed spectators is a priority for us should such incidents continue to affect the Australian landscape.

"It is therefore prudent of us to put in place these guidelines with our stakeholders."

- AAP

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