Masks and water at 450 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (Photo – ColoradoBlvd/W.k.)
Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, at 10:00 am, Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) will pass out free personal protective equipment (PPE) to those impacted by the Eaton Fire at 450 N. Lake Ave., in conjunction with Pasadena Water and Power Department’s bottled water distribution site.
By News Desk
Being around ash may irritate your eyes, nose, or skin; and can cause coughing, asthma attacks, difficulty breathing, headaches, and other health effects. Prevent exposure by wearing protective gear in areas affected by the fires, especially while cleaning up ash. Wear a tight-fitting respirator that filters ash particles from the air you breathe, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks, and goggles to avoid skin and eye contact.
Use respirators that have two straps and the words “NIOSH” and either “N95” or “P100” printed on them. These respirators filter fine particles from smoke and coarse particles from ash, respiratory irritants that can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. PPHD recommends residents at risk of health impacts from the air quality, including older adults, children, people with disabilities, people with underlying health conditions, or people who are immunocompromised, wear respirators. If you have heart or lung disease, talk to your doctor before wearing a respirator or working around ash.
If you are unable to visit the PPE distribution center, respirators are available online and at many hardware stores and pharmacies. Obtain respirators in a size that can be tightened over your mouth and nose with a snug seal to your face. Surgical masks and one-strap dust masks will not protect your lungs, as they are not designed to seal tightly to the face.
When cleaning up ash, do not use leaf blowers. Avoid stirring or sifting through ash and avoid actions that kick ash particles into air. For more information on protecting yourself from ash exposure, check this link. To check the air quality in Los Angeles, visit this link and enter your zip code.
Free PPE Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Location 450 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
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