News

Thursday, May 7, 2009, 9:00 am

Outdoor Activities Are Being Curtailed Due to Air Quality

The following news release was prepared by the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department on Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Air Quality Warning Continues for Southern Santa Barbara High Winds Forecast to Continue; Smoke and Soot from Jesusita Fire

The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District have issued an Air Quality Warning for Southern Santa Barbara; areas affected may vary depending on wind direction. Air quality continues to be poor in some parts due to smoke from the Jesusita fire, and winds may stir soot particles from burned areas into the air.

If you see or smell smoke in the air where you are, be cautious and use common sense to protect your family's health. Everyone, especially people with heart or lung disease (including asthma), older adults, and children, should limit time spent outdoors, and avoid outdoor exercise when smoke is in the area. If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to exposure to smoke and particles, including repeated coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, palpitations, nausea or unusual fatigue or lightheadedness, contact your health care provider.

Levels of smoke and particles will depend on changes in winds, and the movement of the fire. Residents are also cautioned to avoid stirring up soot particles during cleanup.