Dear Valued Community Members,
In the wake of the recent Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires, St. George’s Medical Clinic is issuing this important health advisory regarding potential toxic exposures that are putting our heroic first responders at risk. Unlike a traditional forest fire, the burning of residential structures, vehicles, and vegetation can release dangerous levels of heavy metals and other toxic elements into our environment. We are monitoring elevated levels of six particularly concerning toxic elements: Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Chromium, Arsenic, and Lithium.
Here’s why testing matters and what you should know about these concerning substances.
Where do these toxins come from and what are the risks?
1. LEAD
– Sources: Old paint, contaminated soil, some plumbing, certain ceramics
– Health effects: Neurological damage, developmental delays in children, hypertension, kidney
damage
2. ARSENIC
– Sources: Contaminated water, some foods (particularly rice), pressure-treated wood, certain
industries
– Health effects: Cancer risk, skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity
3. CHROMIUM
– Sources: Industrial pollution, leather tanning, chrome plating, some pigments
– Health effects: Respiratory issues, skin problems, increased cancer risk
4. CADMIUM
– Sources: Cigarette smoke, industrial emissions, contaminated food, some jewelry
– Health effects: Kidney damage, bone disease, increased cancer risk
5. MERCURY
– Sources: Thermostats, fluorescent bulbs, some industrial processes
– Health effects: Neurological damage, cognitive impacts, fetal development issues
6. LITHIUM
– Sources: Medical use, some municipal water supplies, certain industries
– Health effects: Thyroid problems, kidney issues, neurological effects at high levels
How to best protect your health and limit exposure?
1. Avoid disturbing ash
2. Use N95 masks for outdoor activities
3. Remove shoes before entering homes
4. Keep windows closed during cleanup
5. Use HEPA air purifiers
6. Wash hands frequently
7. Clean surfaces with damp cloths
Our dedicated team at St. George’s Medical Clinic is available to keep our first responders and community safe by offering health risk evaluations, toxin testing protocol development, long-term monitoring plans, and much more. We continue to collaborate with the Pasadena Public
Health Department, LA County Environmental Health, and other community environmental organizations to remain best informed during this time in order to provide the best care we can. Please do not hesitate to contact our Medical Directors directly if you have any specific
concerns or questions regarding how to best address the health and safety of your community.