After nearly six months of recovery efforts following a wildfire in Pacific Palisades, the Los Angeles Fire Department has lifted the final evacuation orders. Concerns over hazardous debris and downed wires had persisted, but cleanup efforts cleared more than 3,200 properties. While officials emphasize safety, including N-95 mask recommendations for residents, worries remain about potential soil contamination. Investigations have revealed lead and arsenic levels above state standards in areas thought to be cleared. Ongoing police presence aims to deter crime as residents return to the community.
"Our concern has decreased since much of the debris has been removed," said Lyndsey Lantz, reflecting progress in the cleanup process after the Pacific Palisades wildfire.
Authorities have maintained vehicle checkpoints to keep the public away from hazardous areas, but as evacuation orders lift, public access is now allowed.
Elected officials and environmental researchers are worried about soil contamination; soil samples have shown lead and arsenic levels exceeding safety standards for residential areas.
Public health officials urge caution even as residents return, recommending N-95 masks to protect against toxic dust during the recovery process.
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