LA fires: 'Hazardous ash' may still linger in the air, forecasters say
LOS ANGELES - While containment on the Eaton and Palisades fires continue to grow, forecasters with South Coast AQMD say ‘hazardous ash’ may still be present in the air.
The air quality for Wednesday, Jan. 22 is in the good to moderate range for most of Southern California, which includes the coast, LA, OC, and Inland Empire.
According to South Coast AQMD, the air quality index is calculated based on common air pollutants including particulate matter, ozone (smog), carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide. They say it does not account for other pollutants that may also cause unhealthy air quality at times.
"Air quality monitors are focused on specific type of pollutants. And when you're talking about things like asbestos or different toxins, those require specific types of sensors. So the general ones that are used don't pick those up," said Chris Chavez, deputy policy director for the Coalition for Clean Air.
RELATED: LA Weather Timeline: Rain forecast sparks mudslide threats
Chavez said some changes could be coming to the way air quality is registered.
"I am certain that they're going to be increasing their monitoring in this region because of the air pollution. I'm sure EPA, the California Air Resources Board will also be paying particular attention to these challenges. It will take a while to get some of this stuff up and running. But at the same time, I do think given how significant that these fires were, it's going to take a lot of our attention and a lot of our prioritization in dealing with this response," he added.
Experts say that even after fires are contained and extinguished, health risks from ash, smoke, and toxic materials, including asbestos, will linger for weeks and months. According to Kaiser Permanente, this poses a risk to everyone, particularly kids, seniors, those working outdoors and anyone with asthma, respiratory illnesses.
AQMD said that most of SoCal will be affected by smoke with the highest readings of fine-particle pollution throughout LA County.
SUGGESTED: California Fires Updates: Tuesday, Jan. 21
How to protect yourself
If you are in an area with lots of ash and dust, officials say to protect yourself and limit your exposure.
Below is a list of tips from South Coast AQMD.
Respirator masks: Have a disposable respirator mask (i.e. N-95 or P-100 respirators) nearby if you plan to be outside in smoky conditions.
Generator Safety: If you plan to use a generator during a public safety power shutoff, never use it inside your house. Generators produce toxic carbon monoxide gas that can kill you. Only use your generator when it is outdoors and at least 20 feet away from your home.
AC: Run your air conditioner if you have one and make sure it has a clean filter. Close the fresh air intake if your air conditioner has the option so that it is recirculating the indoor air to prevent bringing additional smoke inside.
Medical plan: If you or your family member has a heart or lung disease (such as asthma), consult your doctor to have a plan in case the smoke worsens the symptoms. Have an adequate supply of medications on hand (5 days or more).
- Stay indoors with windows/doors closed.
- Run your HVAC system, or air purifier if available.
- Don’t use a leaf blower.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity.
- If cleaning up ash, wear goggles, gloves, long-sleeved shirts and long pants.