Los Angeles County Fire Zone Pollution Testing Reveals Lead Contamination in Soil

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, soil samples collected from the downwind area of the Eaton Fire showed elevated levels of lead, exceeding the health screening threshold.

Officials stated that soil samples from the burned area of the Palisades Fire also revealed elevated levels of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, officials emphasized that there is no evidence of widespread contamination in that area.

In a statement, the Public Health Department pointed out that if test results are below the health screening threshold, even lifelong exposure for the most vulnerable groups is considered safe. However, if levels exceed the standard, further evaluation is necessary although immediate cleanup may not be required. The testing was conducted from mid-February to mid-March, with soil samples collected from damaged and intact houses within the burned areas, as well as the surrounding areas. The testing included heavy metals, PAHs, dioxins, and other common hazardous substances after a fire.

The purpose of the tests is to assess the overall impact of the fires on the environment. The Public Health Department stated that the reasonable source of lead released by the Eaton Fire is mainly from lead paint in older homes, which was commonly used before 1979. A report from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) revealed that over 90% of residences in the Altadena community were built before 1975.

Los Angeles County plans to release a comprehensive report in May. Residents with concerns about the conditions of their soil are advised to commission further testing by environmental professionals.

For areas where fire debris has not been completely cleared, it is recommended that people avoid inhaling or coming into contact with ash, smoke, and post-disaster waste, and to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Community members are advised to review soil sampling results and, if hazardous substances are found to exceed the standard, consider taking preventative measures.

For soil sampling and fire impact report inquiries, please visit the webpage provided by the Public Health Department.

The Public Health Department offers free blood lead testing for those with concerns about lead exposure. Residents can undergo such tests through healthcare providers, with most insurance plans covering the costs. Alternatively, they can call Quest Lab at 800-LA-4-LEAD or participate in mobile testing at various community events.

For more information about the testing, please visit the link provided.