The County of Santa Barbara Health Department (County Health) has issued a Health Alert in response to a Heat Advisory from the National Weather Service and potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) announced by Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas & Electric. These conditions affect various parts of Santa Barbara County, including interior mountains and valleys, with forecasts predicting hot, dry weather and elevated fire risks.
The Heat Advisory is in effect from Thursday, October 15th, at 10:00 AM, and will continue until 8:00 PM on Saturday, October 17th. During this period, temperatures are expected to reach up to 95 degrees. Additionally, a Fire Weather Watch is scheduled for Friday, October 16th, from morning through afternoon, specifically for the Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains.
County Health is urging residents to adopt necessary safety measures to prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Special attention should be given to individuals who may be less aware of the dangers or slower to react, including the elderly, young children, and pets. Checking on neighbors is also recommended.
To mitigate risks, residents should wear appropriate clothing that is lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting. Maintaining hydration is crucial; individuals should drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, preferably without sugar or caffeine, and not wait until thirst sets in before drinking.
Outdoor activities should be limited, with any necessary outdoor tasks scheduled for cooler times of the day, such as morning and evening hours. When outdoors, wearing sunscreen and taking frequent rests are advised. Taking regular breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned rooms can also help keep the body cool. Even a few hours in air conditioning can make a difference, and cool showers or baths are beneficial. For those without air conditioning, arranging to spend parts of the day in a cooler alternative space is suggested. Electric fans may offer comfort, but they are not effective in preventing heat-related illness when temperatures are in the high 90s.
Individuals who work outdoors should take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if possible, stay hydrated, and move to a cooler space immediately if they experience signs of heat exhaustion. It is important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, nausea, or heavy sweating. If these symptoms occur, the affected person should be moved to a cooler location without delay.
Heat stroke represents a more severe condition than heat exhaustion. While symptoms can be similar, heat stroke often involves hot, flushed skin, and the person may stop sweating, resulting in dry skin. If heat stroke is suspected, calling 911 immediately is critical as it is a life-threatening emergency. Additionally, children should never be left unattended in vehicles, as car interiors can become dangerously hot within minutes, even on moderately warm days. In the event of a nearby wildfire, residents should avoid smoke exposure, as smoke can exacerbate heat and physical stress.
Animal Services also highlights the vulnerability of pets to heat-related illnesses, noting that animals can overheat rapidly. The department is urgently seeking foster families to provide temporary homes for shelter pets, emphasizing that the Santa Barbara and Lompoc animal shelters lack air conditioning. Even a short-term foster placement can help ensure an animal remains cool, comfortable, and safe during periods of extreme heat. Those interested in fostering can call 833.422.8413 or visit one of the shelters.
Residents are encouraged to develop a plan for staying cool during the upcoming hot weather days and to learn how to prepare for potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs. More information on preparedness can be found by visiting ReadySBC.org.
