Pasadena issues public health advisory after Eaton Fire soil test
Pasadena released a new public health advisory following the latest results from the preliminary round of soil testing around the Eaton Fire burn scar.
The analysis showed that the soil surrounding the fire zone contained lead levels exceeding state and federal screening guidelines. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said the findings are consistent with the air monitor results during and immediately after the wildfire.
Public health officials stressed that the findings do not imply that any abatement or cleanup is necessary. Instead, the tests will help scientists identify particular areas needing additional evaluation. Public health staff also noted that because the LA area produces many potential sources of lead, it's unclear whether the lead samples came from the wildfire or other sources.
However, scientists believe the higher-than-anticipated levels of lead could be linked to burned homes. Lead-based paint was common in houses before the federal government banned it in 1978. A Caltech study found that 90% of the homes in Altadena were built before 1975.
"The results were a little bit unexpected, but again, you have to keep in mind these are screening levels," public health officer Dr. Parveen Kaur said. "By no means do these signify anything more than a screening."
As scientists continue their soil evaluations, the Pasadena Public Health Department recommended proactive measures inside and outside of their homes to prevent lead exposure.
Outside:
- Prevent their children and pets from digging or playing in exposed soil
- Cover exposed soil with grass, mulch, wood chips, gravel or ground cover plans to reduce dust and prevent direct contact
- Remove dirt from sidewalks, patios, driveways and other hard outdoor surfaces by spraying with a house
- Wash hands after contact with soil and before eating
- Wash pet paws and toys after touching soil
Inside:
- Remove shoes before entering a home or use sticky mats to remove dust and dirt from your shoes
- Use doormats and wash them regularly
- Mop entryways and hard floor surfaces frequently
- Avoid cleaning methods that would send dust into the air
- Run air purifiers that use HEPA filters
Because of the potential health risks from the wildfire, public health staff is offering free blood lead testing for people who are concerned about lead exposure. Residents can either go to their medical provider, schedule a free appointment at a Quest Lab, or go through mobile testing booths at select community events. For more information or to find testing locations, visit ph.lacounty.gov/wildfires or call 1-800-LA-4-LEAD (1-800-524-5323).
