Protecting Your Health in a Wildfire
The LA Wildfire: A Public Health Emergency
A public health emergency has been declared in Los Angeles County, California, due to the LA wildfires and windstorm conditions. There are critical health risks that residents and the public should be aware of and protect against to ensure their safety and well-being.
Wildfire Health Effects
The impacts of the fires that burned throughout Los Angeles County in January 2025 will be long-lasting.
A health advisory has been issued for individuals residing within 250 yards of a burned structure or parcel within or near the Palisades and Eaton burn areas. Residents in these areas may face an increased risk of exposure to hazardous substances from ash, soot, and fire debris before the completion of Phase 1 (hazardous materials removal) and Phase 2 (fire debris removal). Exposure to these materials may lead to physical health symptoms and may pose long-term health impacts, including:
Itchy eyes
Headaches
Dry Cough
Sneezing
Sore throat
Strange taste in mouth
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing
Nausea or vomiting
Allergic skin reactions
Get the Post-Fire Assessment Plan
When to Seek Medical Attention
People experiencing symptoms (shortness of breath, severe coughing, wheezing, headaches, chest pain, palpitations, nausea, or unusual fatigue) should seek prompt medical attention from their doctor or urgent care provider. If your symptoms worsen or you have an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Managing Your Prescriptions
Managing your current prescriptions is important to ensure you stay on top of your health, even during a wildfire.
If you have questions related to lost or missing routine prescription medications, certain disaster response rules are in effect. Use caution if you need to leave your home for critical necessities like food, water, and prescription medications.
If pharmacies or insurers are not following these rules, you can report it here.
Precautions for Assessing Your Property After a Fire
Assume All Power Lines Are Live
Stay away from damaged or fallen power lines and power poles. Your building and safety agency may post a notice on your damaged structure with directions for your protection. Please follow the posted notice.
Use Protective Gear
Wear respiratory protection (N-95 or P-100 masks) when entering the burn area to reduce
exposure to ash. Ear plugs or safety earmuffs should be used if heavy machinery or power tools are being used by emergency crews near you.
Look Out for Hazards
Look out for unstable structures, sharp objects, household hazardous materials, and poorly ventilated areas where carbon monoxide may be present.
Get Timely Assistance
These resources are available to help keep you and your family safe, including your pets, and to receive timely assistance.
Your Mental Health Matters
Natural and manmade disasters can cause persistent stress and mental exhaustion and worsen baseline mental health conditions. Family, community, and social networks are very important: know that you are not alone.
If you or a loved one is experiencing distress, please seek help.