LA Fire Asbestos Clean-Up: Thousands of Homes Done, Thousands More to Go

Los Angeles saw multiple, massive fires in January, and the clean-up still has a long way to go. One major reason is the toxic material mixed in with the ash and wreckage, including cancer-causing asbestos fibers. Testing showed about half of the destroyed homes in one neighborhood, Altadena, are contaminated with asbestos.

The US Army Corps of Engineers reports 2,269 properties are clear of hazardous material, including asbestos, as of March 8, according to CBS Los Angeles. About 16,000 structures were destroyed in all the affected areas. 

About 31% of the structures tested positive for asbestos, but about half of those in Altadena tested positive for the cancer-causing fibers.  The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a warning in February stating structures within 250 yards of the two fire sites might be contaminated with asbestos, heavy metals such as lead, and hazardous chemicals.

Army Corps Colonel Sonny Avichal, Eaton’s emergency field office commander, states certified asbestos contractors have performed asbestos testing during cleanup efforts. Asbestos abatement is done by hand before large-scale debris removal starts.

Call Us Today for A Free Consultation

We are your boots on the ground if you or someone you love suffers from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness in Kentucky. To reach our Louisville office, call toll-free at 855-385-9532. You may also complete our contact form for a free initial consultation.