Asbestos the hidden enemy in the wildfire zones

As wildfires increasingly become a common occurrence globally, they bring not only immediate devastation but also long-term environmental and health challenges. One of the most concerning aspects is the risk associated with the release of asbestos from older structures, a threat that lingers long after the fires are extinguished. This blog explores the implications of asbestos exposure due to wildfires, incorporating case studies and current reports to provide a detailed view of the situation and recommend proactive measures.

Understanding Asbestos

Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. Historically used in a variety of building materials such as roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, and flooring, asbestos is hazardous when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and Asbestosis, diseases that may develop many years after exposure.

Figure 1: Asbestos Risk Awareness Image Credit: Poulomi Chakravarty

Unseen Dangers: Asbestos Release During California Wildfires

Travis Rodgers' article for The Mesothelioma Center sheds light on a critical and often overlooked consequence of California's wildfires—the release of asbestos from older buildings damaged by fire. As described in the piece, thousands of structures in areas like the Palisades, which were built before stringent asbestos regulations were put in place in 1980, pose a hidden danger when they burn. These buildings, including homes, schools, and industrial sites, often contain asbestos in materials such as insulation, tiles, and roofing. When these materials are subjected to the high heat of wildfires, asbestos fibers are released into the atmosphere.

These fibers can then be carried over large distances by the dry, strong winds that typically accompany wildfires. This not only poses a direct inhalation risk to those nearby but also spreads the contamination across a wider area, impacting more communities and ecosystems. Rodgers specifically points to the dangerous aftermath when residents begin to return and clean up, potentially disturbing settled asbestos fibers without adequate protection or awareness of the risks.

Assistant Medical Director Dr. Puneet Gupta of the Los Angeles County Fire Department comments in the article on the increasing reports of respiratory issues in local emergency rooms, which he attributes to the spread of asbestos and other particulates in smoke and ash. This aspect highlights the immediate health impacts and the potential for long-term consequences if not properly managed.

Furthermore, Linda Reinstein, President and Co-Founder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, is quoted discussing the vast scale of asbestos contamination that could remain undetected until it becomes airborne by disturbances, stressing the importance of safety measures and awareness among those living in and around affected areas.

The article underlines the importance of proper safety gear, such as HEPA filters and P-100 respirators, for anyone involved in the cleanup process, and for residents returning to potentially contaminated environments. It calls for more rigorous regulations and preparedness strategies to address these challenges effectively, ensuring public safety in the face of increasingly frequent and severe wildfire events.

Brittany Anas's article for House Beautiful also looks into the ongoing health hazards posed by asbestos in the aftermath of wildfires, particularly highlighting the recent devastating fires in the Greater Los Angeles area. As wildfires ravage through older neighborhoods, they not only destroy homes and businesses but also disperse asbestos fibers from legacy construction materials into the air. Michelle Whitmer, an asbestos expert at The Mesothelioma Center, explains that asbestos, used in building materials for its durability and insulation properties, becomes a significant threat when these materials are compromised by fire. The article points out that nearly three-quarters of structures in the Palisades area were built before asbestos use was regulated in the 1980s, posing a serious risk of airborne asbestos during fires.

Whitmer further discusses the properties of asbestos, noting that it can withstand temperatures up to 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing fibers to survive and become airborne even after severe fire damage. The risks are not confined to the immediate aftermath; asbestos fibers can linger in the air and on surfaces long after the flames have been extinguished, posing long-term health risks to residents, cleanup crews, and first responders. These fibers, if inhaled, can lead to severe health issues like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, prompting the need for careful handling and specialized cleanup procedures to minimize exposure. Whitmer emphasizes the importance of professional debris removal, proper respiratory protection, and avoiding disturbance of ash and debris to prevent releasing more fibers into the air.

Risks Associated with Asbestos for Different Stakeholders

1. Residents and Homeowners: Residents returning to wildfire-impacted areas face significant risks due to potential asbestos exposure. Older homes and buildings damaged by fire may release asbestos fibers into the air, posing inhalation risks that can lead to severe respiratory diseases and cancers.

2. Firefighters and First Responders: These frontline workers are at a heightened risk of asbestos exposure while managing wildfire scenes. The disturbance of asbestos-containing materials during firefighting efforts can release hazardous fibers, making adequate protective measures crucial.

3. Cleanup Crews and Construction Workers: Post-wildfire cleanup involves handling debris that may contain asbestos materials. Workers involved in demolition and reconstruction need to be aware of the presence of asbestos to avoid exposure that could result in long-term health complications.

4. Environmental Health Professionals: These experts need to monitor air quality and manage public health advisories related to asbestos in post-fire areas to safeguard community health and guide safe cleanup procedures.

Figure 2: Asbestos Exposure Risks to Various Stakeholders during or after wildfires. Image credit: Poulomi Chakravarty

Case Studies

Enhancing Asbestos Monitoring and Response in Wildfire-Prone Areas

The research conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, thoroughly documented in the International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, provides an in-depth analysis focused on enhancing asbestos detection and response mechanisms during wildfire incidents, particularly in regions like Libby, Montana (Fuhr et al., 2021). This area, known for its extensive vermiculite mining which is contaminated with asbestos, presents unique challenges during wildfires, as the fires can release hazardous asbestos fibers into the environment. The study highlights the critical need for deploying advanced sensor technologies and developing robust response strategies to effectively monitor airborne asbestos particles in real-time, thereby increasing the safety and preparedness of both firefighting teams and local communities (Fuhr et al., 2021). By leveraging novel architectural and technological solutions, the researchers advocate for a transformation in current fire management practices, which could significantly reduce health risks associated with asbestos exposure in fire-infrequent yet vulnerable regions (Fuhr et al., 2021). This approach not only aims to enhance immediate response capabilities but also contributes to long-term environmental and public health strategies by integrating comprehensive asbestos management into wildfire preparedness plans.

Occupational Exposures to Carcinogens in Wildland Firefighters

In a detailed examination published by West et al. (2024) in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, the research meticulously evaluates the carcinogenic exposures encountered by wildland firefighters, providing critical insights into the occupational hazards they face. The study identifies a wide array of carcinogens, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, and formaldehyde, which are prevalent in the smoke and debris from wildfires (West et al., 2024). These compounds are particularly concerning due to their strong links to various forms of cancer and other chronic health conditions that may develop over time. West et al. (2024) point out that the current standard protective gear and safety protocols may not adequately shield firefighters from these harmful agents. The research emphasizes the necessity for advanced protective equipment that can more effectively filter out these carcinogens and reduce skin exposure. Additionally, the paper calls for a systemic overhaul of safety measures, including better fire scene management and post-exposure medical screenings to enhance long-term health outcomes for firefighters. This case study highlights an urgent need for policy changes and increased funding for research to develop and implement technologies and strategies that safeguard the health of those who protect our communities from wildfires (West et al., 2024).

Rethinking Fire Management in the Northeastern USA Following Smoke Events

In the research paper by Andrew L. Vander Yacht and colleagues, the authors argue for a reevaluation of current fire management strategies in regions traditionally infrequent to wildfires, particularly in light of a recent smoke event from Canadian wildfires that significantly affected the northeastern United States. This event has highlighted the vulnerabilities of these areas to changing fire regimes due to climate change. The paper critiques the prevailing "asbestos paradigms," which have historically promoted forest compositions and structures that are increasingly sensitive to fire, potentially exacerbating future risks as fire occurrences are expected to rise. The authors suggest that integrating prescribed burns and mechanical interventions could build resilience by fostering biodiversity dependent on disturbance. The 2023 smoke event serves as a critical reminder of the need for enhanced research and practical management strategies that consider the growing likelihood of wildfires in these fire-infrequent forests, aiming to prevent ecological degradation and bolster forest health against anticipated increases in fire activity (Vander Yacht et al., 2024).

Asbestos Contamination in Post-Fire Regions of Greece

The comprehensive study conducted by Kyriakidis et al. (2024) published in Environmental Geochemistry and Health investigates the presence of asbestos in building materials and soils in post-fire regions of Mati, Kineta, and Varimbombi in Greece, which experienced significant wildfires between 2018 and 2021. The study represents the first major campaign to assess asbestos contamination in these areas, following extensive wildfires that left behind considerable destruction and potential health hazards. The researchers collected samples from various construction materials and nearby soils to analyze for asbestos fibers using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), identifying both chrysotile and crocidolite types of asbestos (Kyriakidis et al., 2024). The findings from Kyriakidis et al. (2024) also highlight the importance of integrating advanced asbestos detection and management strategies in post-disaster recovery and urban planning efforts to mitigate future environmental and public health impacts.

Preventive Measures to Mitigate Asbestos Exposure

To protect against asbestos exposure in wildfire-affected areas, several preventive measures can be implemented:

Asbestos Assessment and Monitoring: Regular inspections and air quality monitoring in areas known to contain older buildings can help identify asbestos risks early.
Public Education: Informing residents and workers about the dangers of asbestos exposure and proper safety protocols can reduce the risk of exposure.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring that all personnel involved in firefighting and cleanup operations have access to and use appropriate PPE, such as P-100 respirators, which can filter out asbestos fibers.
Strict Adherence to Safety Protocols: Implementing rigorous procedures for handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials can prevent the release of fibers.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to local and national asbestos management laws and regulations is crucial for all parties involved in construction and environmental management.

Figure 3: Preventive measures to Mitigate Asbestos Exposure Image Credit: Poulomi Chakravarty

Risk to Wildlife in the Wildfire Zones

Asbestos exposure poses significant risks not only to humans but also to animals and birds, particularly in areas affected by wildfires where older buildings containing asbestos materials are destroyed. When these structures burn, asbestos fibers can be released into the environment and contaminate the habitats of various wildlife species. Animals and birds can inhale or ingest asbestos fibers indirectly through contaminated water sources, food supplies, or by direct contact with the debris. This exposure can lead to respiratory and other health issues in wildlife, similar to those seen in humans, although the specific impacts on different species are not as well documented. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to implement rapid response strategies during wildfires to manage and contain asbestos before it disperses widely. This includes setting up containment zones around affected areas to minimize the spread of fibers and undertaking thorough cleanup and asbestos abatement measures promptly. Additionally, restoring natural habitats and monitoring environmental health indicators can help ensure that ecosystems recover and remain safe for both wildlife and human populations.

Asbestos Risk Management for Wildlife in Wildfire Hotspots

To mitigate the risks of asbestos exposure to wildlife during and after wildfires, effective strategies can be implemented both preemptively and in response to fire incidents. Here are some key points to consider for protecting animals and birds from asbestos contamination:

Pre-Fire Asbestos Audits:
- Conduct regular asbestos inspections in buildings within fire-prone areas to identify and document locations with asbestos-containing materials.
- Create a registry of these locations to prioritize and streamline response efforts during wildfires.
Asbestos Containment Measures:
- Establish containment protocols to control asbestos release during building collapses or fires. This may involve using fire-retardant materials that encapsulate asbestos, preventing it from becoming airborne.
- Employ fire suppression techniques that minimize the destruction of buildings known to contain asbestos, where safely possible.
Rapid Response and Cleanup:
- Develop and deploy rapid response teams specialized in asbestos containment and abatement immediately following fires.
- Use wetting agents to bind asbestos fibers in debris and ash, reducing the risk of inhalation by animals exploring the area.
- Implement safe debris removal practices, ensuring that all materials are handled in a manner that minimizes fiber release.
Habitat Restoration:
- Prioritize the restoration of natural habitats that have been affected by asbestos contamination.
- Monitor and rehabilitate water sources and vegetation in the area to ensure they are free from asbestos fibers, protecting food chains and animal health.
Wildlife Health Monitoring:
- Establish monitoring programs to study the long-term health effects of asbestos exposure on wildlife populations.
- Work with wildlife conservation experts to track changes in health and behavior that may be attributable to asbestos exposure.
Education and Training:
- Provide training for firefighters, wildlife managers, and environmental health workers on the risks and safety procedures related to asbestos in wildfire scenarios.
- Raise public awareness about the impact of asbestos on wildlife and the environment, promoting community involvement in preparedness and response efforts.
Legislation and Policy Enhancement:
- Advocate for stronger regulations on asbestos management, especially in areas prone to natural disasters like wildfires.
- Ensure that environmental protection laws incorporate specific measures for wildlife protection in the context of asbestos exposure.

By implementing these strategies, communities can significantly reduce the risk of asbestos exposure to wildlife and help maintain healthy ecosystems even in the face of increasing wildfire incidents.

Figure 4: Asbestos Risk Management in Wildfire Scenario Image Credit: Poulomi Chakravarty

Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Awareness and Safety Measures

The potential for asbestos exposure in wildfire-impacted areas is a serious concern that requires increased awareness and strategic management. By understanding the properties of asbestos and the conditions under which it becomes hazardous, stakeholders can better protect themselves and their communities. Proactive measures, including comprehensive asbestos management plans and adherence to safety protocols, are essential to mitigate the health risks associated with asbestos exposure after wildfires. Through collaborative efforts between government, environmental health professionals, and the public, we can ensure that the aftermath of wildfires does not lead to another, less visible disaster in the form of asbestos-related diseases.

References

Anas, B. (2025, January 25). How dangerous is the asbestos in the air after a wildfire? experts weigh in. House Beautiful. https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/a63462900/asbestos-wildfire-danger/

Fuhr, P. L., Morganti, M., Monday, W., Richards, J., Piersall, E., & Rooke, S. S. (2021). Research and Evaluation Concepts in Support of Asbestos Detection During Wildfire Operations–A Review. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, 8(3).

Kyriakidis, F., Dianellou, I., Vollas, A. et al. Presence of asbestos in building materials and soils in postfire areas of Mati, Kineta and Varimbombi in Greece. Environ Geochem Health 46, 452 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-024-02211-z

Rodgers, T. (2025, January 21). Raging California Wildfires May Spread Toxic Asbestos. Asbestos.com. Retrieved January 23, 2025, https://www.asbestos.com/news/2025/01/10/raging-california-wildfires-may-spread-toxic-asbestos/

Selby, K. (2016) What Mesothelioma Is, Mesothelioma Center - Vital Services for Cancer Patients & Families. Available at: https://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/.

Mesothelioma Center (2024, November 26). The Mesothelioma Center: Support for cancer patients & families. Mesothelioma Center - Vital Services for Cancer Patients & Families. https://www.asbestos.com/

Vander Yacht, A. L., Gilvarg, S. C., Varner, J. M., & Stambaugh, M. C. (2024). Future increases in fire should inform present management of fire-infrequent forests: A post-smoke critique of “asbestos” paradigms in the northeastern USA and beyond. Biological Conservation, 296, 110703.

West, M., Brown, S., Noth, E., Domitrovich, J., & Navarro DuBose, K. (2024). A review of occupational exposures to carcinogens among wildland firefighters. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 21(10), 741–764. https://doi.org/10.1080/15459624.2024.2388532

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Uncovering Asbestos Risks in the Aftermath of Wildfires