An air quality watch was issued today as high winds have to potential to whip ash and soot particles produced by the Miguelito Canyon fire south of Lompoc into the air.
The advisory will be in effect as long as conditions warrant, according to the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District.
An air quality watch is issued when there is potential for poor air quality.
Levels of smoke and particles in the air will vary depending on winds and progress made in containing the fire, health officials said.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the fire was about 50-percent contained.
Health officials are advising everyone in the area, especially people with heart or lung disease, to limit time spent outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise when high concentrations of dust and particles are in the air.
Anyone exhibiting symptoms related to exposure to ash particles should contact a health care provider. Symptoms include: repeated coughing; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; wheezing; chest tightness or pain; palpitations; nausea; and unusual fatigue or lightheadedness.
County health officials also are urging residents to avoid stirring particles into the air when cleaning up ash and soot. Leaf blowers in particular, officials say, should be avoided.
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