Is it Safe to Breathe Outside Again?

On Tuesday, weather experts reported that the Pacific Palisades fire was 95% contained.  The Eaton fire was 99% contained and the Hughes fire was 98% contained.  With the fires almost entirely out, SoCal residents can figuratively breathe a sigh of relief.  In reality, though, things are not looking so good in terms of air quality.  The horrific wildfires, which have consumed entire neighborhoods since Jan 7 and sent thousands running for cover, will soon be a thing of the past.  

But toxic air won’t.

The rain over the weekend was followed by clear skies, but looks are deceiving.  As scientist Andrew Moseman said in an article for Heatmap, “It’s tricky to know when it’s okay to return to the outdoors during an ongoing wildfire crisis.”  There is a lot of uncertainty in the air—residue from plastic, marble, metal, and woodwork, which used to be people’s homes. Potential health threats are lurking in every breath we take.

Dr.  Barbara Ferrer. Director of L.A. County Department of Public Health warned, “Fire, debris and ash contain harmful substances like heavy metals, asbestos and toxic chemicals.  Heavy metals such as lead and arsenic can come from burned electronics and building materials.”

Air from wildfires—especially when structures burn—impose invisible risks.  So how can you tell if it’s safe?  Toxic dust isn’t always visible or detected on air quality monitors.  Relying on such tools as the Air Quality Index, and apps like IQAir only do half the job.  They are useful in helping meteorologists measure smog and everyday weather.  But the high levels of pollution from SoCal fires is unprecedented.  

Inhaled over a long period of time, debris from fires can lead to chronic respiratory illness.  But there are precautions you can take.  

First, young children, elderly people and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions are advised to stay indoors.  Use air purifiers in your home and wear masks when going outdoors.  If you use an inhaler, make sure your medication and refills are up-to-date.  Shorten your walks with the family dog, and maybe skip jogging for now.  

Wear an N95 mask if you can.  Even better, experts recommend the P100 mask. This reusable respirator is really a face piece that blocks 99.9% of particles, making it virtually impenetrable.  They are said to protect against mold, lead, asbestos, chemicals, dust, fiberglass, lead, odor, fumes, and woodworking, They are pricey—around $30 each.

Generally speaking, stay vigilant,  Assume that the air quality within L.A. County is toxic right now—no matter how clear and sunny the weather is outside.  Treat air quality around fire zones like COVID i9—an airborne health hazard that requires precaution.