Smoke pollution from fires at open cut coal mines in the Latrobe Valley has prompted the Victorian Government to open a community health assessment centre at Morwell.

The fires in the Hazelwood and Yallourn open cut coal mines have been burning for about 12 days, sending thick smoke over the area.

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Some school children have been relocated to a nearby town because of health concerns and residents are complaining about breathing difficulties and headaches from the smoke.

Deputy Premier Peter Ryan told Parliament on Thursday the centre is being opened because he understands the smoke is causing concern.

"Paramedics and nurses will provide health information to those in attendance and provide advice, as well as an assessment service, for people who are concerned about their health," he said.

"They will be working in conjunction with local general practitioners."

The Environment Protection Agency (EAP) has set up air quality monitoring stations in Traralgon, Morwell East and Morwell and says a strong tar-like smell in the air from the fires is unlikely to pose a serious risk.

Officials revealed earlier this week that they considered evacuating the town because of the poor air quality.

However the plan was rejected and since then the air quality has gone from very poor to very good.