What is the main problem faced by Eaton Fire survivors a year later?

Survivors are dealing with persistent lead contamination in their homes and soil, which professional cleanups have not fully resolved.

Why are homeowners becoming citizen scientists after the Eaton Fire?

Homeowners are becoming citizen scientists due to the stubborn nature of lead contamination and the failure of some professional remediation efforts.

How high are lead levels in homes affected by the Eaton Fire?

Testing has shown lead levels in some home areas, like soil, to be significantly above the EPA threshold of 300 PPM.

Home / Environment / Lead Lingers: Fire Survivors Battle Stubborn Toxin a Year Later

Lead Lingers: Fire Survivors Battle Stubborn Toxin a Year Later

9 Jan

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Summary

Many homes remediated for lead still test positive one year later.
Homeowners become 'citizen scientists' due to persistent lead contamination.
Professional cleanings have failed to fully remove stubborn lead particles.

Lead Lingers: Fire Survivors Battle Stubborn Toxin a Year Later

One year after the Eaton Fire, residents are still grappling with persistent lead contamination in their homes and soil. Despite multiple professional cleanings and remediation efforts, many houses continue to show positive lead test results, with some dining room windowsills failing tests even after four rounds of cleaning. This stubborn toxin remains a significant concern for fire survivors.

Homeowners are increasingly taking on the role of 'citizen scientists,' facing the daunting task of testing and managing lead contamination themselves. For example, one homeowner has planted specific grasses and sunflowers in her yard to absorb heavy metals, as her insurance denied soil remediation costs. Geochemists and students are also actively involved, retesting homes to assess the effectiveness of remediation efforts.