When Cleaning Up Ash...

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Wild Fire, Malibu Ca

California Department of Public Health advises residents of recent burn areas to use caution when cleaning up ash from wildfires. The ash from trees burned in forest fires is relatively nontoxic and similar to ash that might be found in your fireplace. However, ash from burned buildings, vehicles, and other similar items may contain many toxic substances, including arsenic, asbestos, lead, and fine particles that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems.

When evacuation orders are lifted, residents should be aware of potential health hazards during the clean-up and rebuilding process. It is important to limit the amount of ash that gets airborne. Leaf blowers and sweeping may seem like the smart way to clean it up, but this actually stirs the ash up so people may breathe it in, which can be dangerous.

In order to avoid potential health risks, CDPH recommends these safety tips for cleaning up ash:

• Never use a leaf blower, as it will spread the ash and blow it back into the air.
• Wear a close-fitting respirator that is rated N-95 or P-100 to block ash particles from being inhaled. Bandanas, surgical or cloth masks do not effectively block fine particles.
• Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to avoid skin contact with ash.
• If you do get ash on your skin, wash it off as soon as possible.
• Remove shoes before entering your home or use “sticky mats” in entryways and doors to remove dust and ash from your shoes. Sticky mats are sold at hardware stores.
• Do not allow children to play in ash. Wash ash off toys before children play with them.
• Clean ash off pets with either a damp cloth or bath.
• If you have a vegetable garden or fruit trees, wash the fruits or vegetables before eating them.
• The use of shop vacuums and other non-HEPA filter vacuums is not recommended. HEPA filter vacuums could be used, if available.