Pasadena recently issued a public health advisory after testing soil near the Eaton Fire burn scar. The tests revealed lead levels exceeding state and federal safety guidelines. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that these findings align with air quality data from the time of the fire.
Public health officials clarified that the elevated lead levels do not require immediate cleanup or abatement. Rather, they serve to help scientists pinpoint areas that may need further examination. It remains uncertain whether the detected lead originated from the wildfire or from other local sources, as the LA area has various potential lead contributors.
Experts suggest that the lead findings might be connected to the destruction of homes in the area. Many houses built before 1978, the year lead-based paint was banned, could be a factor. A study from Caltech highlighted that 90% of homes in Altadena were built prior to 1975, suggesting a significant number may still contain lead paint. Dr. Parveen Kaur, a public health officer, mentioned, “The results were a little unexpected, but these are just screening levels.”
In light of these findings, Pasadena’s Public Health Department urges residents to take measures to reduce lead exposure, both indoors and outdoors.
Outdoor Recommendations:
- Keep children and pets away from digging or playing in bare soil.
- Cover exposed soil with grass, mulch, or other materials to minimize dust.
- Clean hard surfaces like sidewalks and patios with spray hoses to remove soil.
- Wash hands after contact with soil and before eating.
- Clean pets’ paws and toys after they have been outside.
Indoor Recommendations:
- Take off shoes before entering your home or use sticky mats to clean shoes.
- Use doormats and wash them regularly.
- Mop hard surfaces frequently to keep them clean.
- Avoid cleaning methods that might send dust into the air.
- Use HEPA filter air purifiers to reduce airborne lead dust.
To address any health concerns, free blood lead testing is available for residents worried about exposure. Options include visiting local medical providers, scheduling appointments at Quest Labs, or using mobile testing booths at community events.
For additional details, residents can visit LA County Public Health or call 1-800-LA-4-LEAD (1-800-524-5323).
This advisory highlights the ongoing challenges related to environmental health in communities affected by wildfires. As cities like Pasadena grapple with these issues, residents are encouraged to stay informed and take preventive actions.
While the issue of lead in soil may seem daunting, awareness and proactive measures can help protect public health. Communities can look back at similar environmental challenges from the past as they navigate these new hurdles.
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