
Los Angeles County has eased some restrictions on the use of power air blowers that were implemented amid poor air quality from recent wildfires. While the ban was initially countywide, it's now been scaled back to specifically target the Palisades and Eaton Wildfire Perimeter areas. This update comes after the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health deemed improvements in air conditions as fires have been contained, according to the County of Los Angeles.
The Health Officer Order now carefully limits the prohibition of air-propelling devices, such as leaf blowers, within the boundaries defined by CAL FIRE and The Wildland Fire Interagency Geospatial Services Group. This revised order will stick around until the County Health Officer determines the recovery from fires has advanced enough to safely resume the use of these devices without negatively impacting residents and workers' health, as per the official statement.
For areas outside of the wildfire perimeters in Los Angeles County, it's business as usual for power air blowers. Yet, caution has been advised by Public Health officials in regions still coping with lingering ash and dust. They recommend opting for less invasive cleaning methods such as gentle sweeping, wet mopping, or the use of HEPA vacuums instead of power air blowers. Safety gear like masks, and eye and skin protection are also advised for those dealing with ash and dust cleanup.
Despite the localized lifting of the ban, a Local Health Emergency remains in effect across Los Angeles County due to the widespread impacts of the fires and associated windstorm conditions. As the battle with particle-laden air continues, Public Health urges people to keep indoors if they notice smoke or ash, recirculate air indoors with appropriate air conditioners, and opt to wear protective N95 or P100 masks in smoky conditions—advice meant to help mitigate the harmful effects of bad air quality, as reported by the County of Los Angeles. For situations too uncomfortable to stay put without air conditioning, the public is encouraged to find respite in air-conditioned public places like libraries or shopping centers.
In addition to these measures, residents are advised on how to handle their pets during such times, like avoiding leaving pets outdoors, especially at night. If pets show signs of respiratory distress, immediate medical attention at an animal hospital is recommended. For more detailed guidelines and further information on ash cleanup and pet safety, links to resources are provided, such as the one from the American Veterinary Medical Association on Wildfire smoke and animals.