As the Palisades and Eaton fires near containment, LA County faces lingering concerns about the long-term health impacts of wildfire smoke. While air quality has improved significantly, residents near burn areas are advised to remain vigilant and monitor local air quality data. The article provides guidance on staying safe during this period, including advice on using power air blowers and avoiding contact with smoke or ash.
As firefighters close in on the Palisades and Eaton fires — with both nearly 100% contained as of Tuesday, Jan. 27 — concerns remain about lasting public health impacts across L.A. county from the disasters.
Concerns about air quality for residents across L.A. County were heightened when the fires were burning at their peak — largely because they burned down more than 12,000 structures, cars, and more that could release toxic chemicals including heavy metals and asbestos into the air. Aside from relying on AQI data, residents are advised to stay inside if they see or smell smoke or ash in the air.Experts say you’re in close proximity to a burn area if you’re within several houses of the perimeter, though places with a lot of ash, or downwind from the fire area, could also be consider nearby.
“Except in and near burn areas, we are back to business as usual,” Paulson said. “For most people, believe the AQI and relax.”In the early days of the Palisades and Eaton fires, water officials issued notices to customers urging them not drink tap water, even if boiled, as it could have been polluted by the fires.
“LADWP will inform you when tests show that water is safe to drink,” the notice said. “The timing for resolving this is unknown dependent on evolving conditions, performance of necessary system flushing and testing in accordance with public safety protocols.”, which service parts of Altadena, though Pasadena Water and Power lifted its Do-Not-Drink notice for its service areas on Friday, Jan. 24.
“Once the rain advisory is lifted, the ocean water advisory for Surfrider Beach to Dockweiler State Beach at World Way will remain due to fire debris runoff,” DPH said, “which may contain substances including arsenic, other metals, and asbestos, which can be harmful to health.”Keep an eye on air quality for your area.
WILDFIRES AIR QUALITY PUBLIC HEALTH SMOKE ASH
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