The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is holding its last free blood testing event this Friday. This event aims to screen residents affected by the January firestorms for possible lead exposure, a harmful neurotoxin often found in wildfire ash and debris.
The testing will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Altadena Community Center, located at 730 E. Altadena Drive. Residents who have been impacted by the wildfires can continue to receive free blood lead tests at Quest Diagnostics labs until the end of the year. To schedule an appointment, they can call (800) 524-5323.
So far, community testing has revealed low levels of lead contamination among residents. Out of more than 1,500 people screened at previous events, only seven had blood lead levels above the federal reference value of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter. This suggests that most of those tested do not have elevated lead levels, according to the public health department.
Despite the encouraging results, officials urge wildfire survivors to take advantage of this free testing. Lead exposure poses serious health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Children are especially vulnerable due to their developing nervous systems and their tendency to play close to the ground. Lead poisoning can lead to developmental delays and other serious health issues. Pregnant women exposed to lead face risks such as premature delivery and low birth weight.
Concerns over lead exposure have grown as research shows that fires, especially in urban areas, release toxic metals into the environment. These contaminants can persist long after the flames are put out. Soil testing earlier this year revealed that 36% of samples from the Eaton burn scar had lead levels exceeding the state health standard. In some areas near the Eaton fire zone, up to 80% of samples exceeded safe levels.
In response to these findings, Los Angeles County has allocated $3 million to facilitate soil testing for homeowners within a mile downwind of the Eaton scar. This program is free for residents, and they can find more information and check their eligibility on the county’s soil testing program website.
As the final blood testing event approaches, health officials continue to encourage those affected by the wildfires to participate. The potential health risks from lead exposure are significant, and the testing provides an important opportunity for residents to ensure their safety and well-being.