Photo by Sarah Shmerling
By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor
To ensure the safe removal, transport and disposal of debris following the Palisades fire, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued an order on January 15 that prohibits cleanup or removal of debris at fire damaged and burned properties until a hazardous materials inspection is completed by an approved government agency.
The County Fire Health and Hazardous Materials Certified Unified Program Agency, in conjunction with state and federal partners, will conduct a hazardous materials assessment of all burned properties.
Then, state and federal government will operate a program for the clean-up, removal and disposal of fire debris. Property owners may opt to have their properties cleared of the debris, or hire contractors to clear the property after the assessment—which requires additional approval.
When returning to areas impacted by the fires, Public Health urged individuals to take precautions to protect their health and safety.
“Ash, dust and debris—particularly from burned buildings—may contain toxic and cancer-causing chemicals, including asbestos, arsenic and lead,” LA Sanitation and Environment explained. “Ash, soot, dust and other airborne particles may have been deposited inside and outside of homes and businesses.”
The agency wrote that when it comes to cleaning up, do not use leaf blowers or other actions that will push ash up in the air. Instead, they said to try gently sweeping indoor and outdoor surfaces, followed by wet mopping. A solution of bleach and water can be used to disinfect an area.
It is recommended that individuals wear respiratory protection and protective clothing. Public Health suggested the use of an N95 disposable mask, gloves, safety goggles, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes. They also recommended showering regularly throughout the day when cleaning areas with ash.
Though areas like the Highlands, Riviera and Castellammare have been reopened for residents, LA County Fire Department reminded that several “critical” steps must be completed to ensure a safe return to areas affected by the fires.
LACoFD explained that fire hot spots must be fully extinguished, Urban Search and Rescue operations need to be completed, roads must be cleared of hazards—such as downed power lines and fallen trees—streets and road infrastructure must be repaired and deemed safe, and utilities—including water, electricity and gas—must be inspected for safety.
“Homes and other structures must be evaluated for fire damage, structural weaknesses and potential collapse,” according to LACoFD. “A red-tagged building means it is unsafe and cannot be entered. A yellow-tagged building means some areas may be safe, but only for limited use or specific purposes.”
For additional information, contact Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at 888-700-9995 or visit bit.ly/Wildfire_Recovery.
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