The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District announced this afternoon that the air quality advisory for Santa Barbara County had been downgraded to a precautionary advisory. Though the air quality has improved in much of Goleta, some areas may still be affected by high levels of smoke and ash from the Gap Fire – a condition that may have been worsened by the high winds this past weekend.
The advisory is in effect all week and everyone must be cautious of strenuous outdoor activity, especially people afflicted with heart or lung disease (including asthma), children, and the elderly. Contact your health provider if you experience any symptoms of smoke or ash particle exposure, including repeated coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chest pain, and nausea.