Los Angeles County residents living in the shadow of the Eaton Fire's aftermath now have a helping hand from the Department of Public Health. A recent soil testing initiative has been rolled out to address potential lead contamination in residential areas affected by the blaze. According to information released by public health officials, the targeted testing program is set to run until December 2025 and will utilize up to $3 million earmarked from the County’s Lead Paint Hazard Mitigation Program.
Households downwind of the fire site, particularly those where elevated lead levels were detected, have been pinpointed by Roux Associates and subsequently validated by Caltech and the LA Times. These areas will now be prioritized for soil sampling, an effort that is both community-responsive and data-driven. "Los Angeles County is committed to being responsive to the needs of our residents impacted by the Eaton Fire, which is why we’re providing soil testing resources and support to ensure residents can make informed decisions about their health," Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger told the public health department.
The Department of Public Health has adopted a do-it-yourself approach for the collection of soil samples, providing clear guidelines for residents to take samples from their yards. The collected samples can then be dropped off at the designated Public Health Table at the One Stop Permit Center in Altadena. This way, residents do not have to wait for a professional to visit their property, expediting the process and reducing delays in getting much-needed information about soil safety.
Upon collection, these samples will be whisked away to certified laboratories, with residents expecting results via email in no more than 10 business days, complete with guidance on interpreting the results and subsequent steps. "We know how deeply concerned residents are about the safety of their homes and neighborhoods," said Director of Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Barbara Ferrer. Adding, "This soil testing program for properties downwind of the Eaton Fire—where the highest lead levels were found—is meant to provide accurate, data-driven information for residents to make informed choices to protect their health."
Around 26,000 homes within the designated critical areas should anticipate receiving informational postcards. And for those keen to jumpstart their environmental health journey, instructions and support await on the Public Health's dedicated Eaton soil testing webpage.
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