PASADENA, California — Months after the devastating Eaton wildfire tore through Altadena, California, residents are still grappling with its toxic aftermath — not only in the form of scorched homes, but in the invisible threat of contamination lingering in the air and soil.
Tony and Jacqueline Collier, whose home narrowly escaped destruction but sustained serious interior damage, now return weekly to check on the property. What they find each time is unsettling: persistent layers of ash and soot — and, more worryingly, a deepening fear of exposure to hazardous pollutants.
“Trucks go by over and over again, many of them uncovered. And even though our house has been professionally cleaned twice, we still see soot inside,” said 64-year-old Jacqueline Collier. “It’s dangerous. We’re breathing this in.”
In response to growing concerns about toxic residues — particularly lead — from burned homes and debris, Los Angeles County Public Health has launched a free blood-testing program in fire-affected areas, including Altadena and Pacific Palisades.
Jacqueline, who lives with chronic health conditions, didn’t hesitate to get tested. “With my medical history, I just couldn’t risk it,” she said.
Tony Collier echoed her concern: “I’m responsible for my family — my wife, kids, even the dog. I need to know I’m doing everything I can to protect them. We can’t take any chances.”
Hidden Dangers in the Ash
The health risks go far beyond what meets the eye. According to Janet Scully, Environmental Health Manager for LA County, older homes — many built before 1978 — likely contained lead-based paint. When those homes burned, the lead was released into the environment.
“We’re talking about lead particles in the air, in the soil, possibly even in water supplies,” Scully explained. “That exposure can be especially dangerous for children — leading to stomach pain, developmental delays, and learning issues, often without immediate symptoms.”
The historic neighborhood of Altadena, known for its charming vintage homes, now bears little resemblance to its former self. Piles of charred rubble line the streets, waiting to be removed as cleanup crews slowly make progress.
Local resident and historian Michele Zack described how emotionally difficult it is to return to her property.
“Even wearing a mask, we can’t stay there for more than an hour,” Zack said. “We start coughing. You can feel the toxicity in the air.”
Ongoing Health Screening
The county’s free blood-testing program will run through August, with testing sites strategically located near the burn zones. Officials hope the initiative will provide early detection of lead exposure and help ease public concern.
“We want people to know: you’re not imagining this. There is a real risk,” said Scully. “And we’re here to help mitigate it.”
As for the Colliers and other families in Altadena, their recovery will be measured not just in the rebuilding of homes, but in reclaiming peace of mind — one blood test at a time.
