Air quality in Santa Barbara County impacted by California wildfires

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. - The air quality across Santa Barbara County is being impacted by smoke coming from California wildfires.

Wednesday and Thursday, the air quality for all of Santa Barbara County is expected to be moderate. According to the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District, a moderate level is 'acceptable,' but there may be a moderate health concern for a small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District and Santa Barbara County Public Health Department encourage residents to plan for poor air quality conditions caused by wildfire smoke.

The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. 

Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles known as particulate matter. These particles harm the lungs and heart, and can cause coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, nausea, and in severe instances, premature mortality. People with heart or lung disease, seniors, kids, and pregnant women are especially sensitive to smoke.

Click here for some steps to make sure you and your family have safe indoor air quality.

You can monitor Santa Barbara County's air quality conditions here.