Air QualityWarning 5-6-09

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Updated May 6, 2009

Public Health Contact:
Michele Mickiewicz, Public Information Officer, 805-681-5446. 805-451-3497 (cell)

Air Pollution Control District Contact:
Tom Murphy, Technology and Environmental Assessment Division Manager, 805-961-8857 or 805-403-1096 (cell), or Bobbie Bratz, Public Information Officer, 805-455-6403 (cell)

Air Quality Warning Continues for Southern Santa Barbara

High Winds Forecast to Continue; Smoke and Soot from Jesusita Fire

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District today are reissuing 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. This Air Quality Warning will be updated on May 7 (or earlier if conditions warrant).

See this page for more information. For recorded advisory updates, call 805-961-8802

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