FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                
December 27, 2007

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

APCD Contact: Tom Murphy, APCD Division Manager, 805-403-1096 (cell)

Air Quality Advisory for Dust and Ash

Santa Barbara, CA — The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District today continued the Air Quality Advisory for Southern Santa Barbara County communities. Dust and ash blown in from the Zaca burn area during yesterdays wind event continue to present unhealthful concentrations of particulate matter. These conditions are expected to improve during the day but may persist through midnight tonight.

Residents are advised to continue to be cautious and use common sense to protect their family’s health. People with heart or lung disease (including asthma), older adults and children should limit time spent outdoors, and limit prolonged or heavy exertion. If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to excess particulate 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.

Terry Dressler, Air Pollution Control Officer, said, “People should continue to be vigilant and take precautions if they are experiencing dust or ash. It is especially important for people with asthma or other respiratory diseases or heart conditions to monitor their health and consult with their health care providers if their symptoms worsen.”

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