Northwest Pasadena looking up Lincoln Avenue towards the mountains (Photo – Aidan Phelps)
In response to the recent Eaton Fire, the City of Pasadena has conducted extensive environmental testing at nine City facilities located near the fire’s perimeter. While no immediate environmental hazards were detected, the City conducted the testing as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of these buildings and provide the community with relevant data.
By News Desk
The testing, performed by a contracted industrial hygienist, has been completed at eight of the nine facilities. Asbestos was not detected, and all lead levels were found to be well below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) strict Dust Lead Action Level (DLAL) of 5 micrograms per square foot, a standard designed to protect children and vulnerable populations. Testing at the final facility is scheduled to conclude this week, with the City’s Facility Environmental Test Results map being updated accordingly.
Additionally, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) conducted mobile air monitoring on January 31, 2025, across the Pasadena area. The results showed no elevated levels of heavy metals, including lead and arsenic, nor benzene. Overall, AQMD’s findings were within background levels and below national standards, indicating that air quality has not been adversely impacted by the fire. However, elevated methane levels, potentially linked to gas leaks, were detected in Altadena. AQMD has reported these findings to the relevant utility agencies for further investigation.
“These initial facility and air monitoring test results are promising and should ease our worst fears about environmental impacts of wildfires,” said Director of Public Health, Manuel Carmona. “More data is needed to make determinations about the potential risks to public health. The Pasadena Public Health Department continues to work with academic partners and county, state, and federal agencies to understand environmental impacts.”
Temporary leaf blower ban amended
In light of the recent testing results, the City of Pasadena has amended its temporary leaf blower ban, which was initially issued on January 15, 2025, to limit exposure to ash, smoke, and particulate matter from the fire. The ban now permits the use of air blowers and similar devices outside of the Eaton Fire perimeter and at least 50 feet from fire-damaged structures. With ash and debris cleanup efforts well underway and recent rain showers reducing dust levels, the City continues to monitor air quality and health risks in the community.
Debris and ash
For residents in areas where ash and dust remain, the Pasadena Public Health Department encourages alternative cleanup methods. These include gentle sweeping before mopping, using HEPA vacuums, and wearing protective equipment such as a NIOSH-approved respirator, long sleeves, gloves, goggles, and pants to reduce exposure to potential toxic materials, including lead, asbestos, and arsenic.
n a statement released to the public, the City of Pasadena reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the health and safety of its residents and continues to work closely with county, state, and federal agencies to coordinate recovery efforts. Public health monitoring will continue as part of the City’s ongoing efforts to mitigate any potential risks posed by the wildfire.
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