|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE See August 10 notice here. Public Health Contacts: APCD Contacts: Health Advisory for Areas Impacted by Smoke from the Zaca FireSanta Barbara, CA — The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) today issued a health advisory for people living in areas affected by smoke from the Zaca Fire. This is an upgrade from the previous precautionary advisory which had been in effect. Said Air Pollution Control Officer Terry Dressler, "As the fire continues to burn, it’s important that residents continue to take steps to avoid exposure to smoke as much as possible.” Dr. Elliot Schulman, County Health Officer, said, “It’s likely people will continue to see falling ash but the thing to be most concerned about form a health perspective is if you smell smoke. The smaller particulates present in smoke are what increase health risks so if you smell smoke, 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 limit prolonged or heavy exertion when the smell of smoke is present. If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to excess smoke exposure, 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. Due to continuing changes in weather conditions, and burning operations undertaken by the fire agencies to control the fire, the possibility for smoke exposure has increased.. This health advisory is in effect indefinitely and may be revised as conditions warrant. See this page for additional information, and check this website for updates on smoke advisories, and links to additional information on the fire incident. ###
|
Return to 