Appendix E: Chemicals: Combustion ByProducts

Smoke from wildfires or building fires can carry harmful chemicals that affect children's developing lungs and immune systems. This can raise their risk of breathing problems, skin irritation, and long-term issues like hormone disruption or learning delays.

Discussion Prompts for Children's Programs

• Have you or your staff noticed ongoing issues with smoke, soot, or ash in or around schools, shelters, or areas where children are staying or spending time?

• Are there particular areas, such as playgrounds, classrooms, or walking routes, that you're concerned may still have visible ash or dust from the fires?

• Have any families or teachers mentioned children experiencing more coughing, breathing issues, or other health symptoms since the fire?

• Are children playing or gathering in outdoor spaces that haven't yet been cleaned or tested for fire-related contamination?

• Do you know if any cleanup guidance has been provided about safely removing ash or residue from schools or family homes?

• Are you aware of whether air filtration systems in schools or shelters have been checked or upgraded since the fires?

• Have families expressed any concerns about lingering smoke odors or air quality in temporary housing or shelters?

Ideas for Mitigation & Intervention

• Radio and Faith-Based Messaging on Safe Cleanup: Broadcast segments and post flyers through churches and extension offices on avoiding dry sweeping or burning debris, with clear instructions on protecting children during household cleaning.

• Distribute Indoor Cleaning Guidance to Families: Use public housing networks and schools to share multilingual flyers on how to safely clean soot and ash from indoor surfaces using damp cleaning methods to avoid resuspension of particles.

• Youth and Elder-Led Cleanup Circles: Organize intergenerational groups to share traditional and modern cleaning practices for safely removing ash and protecting children's play and sleep areas, especially in multi-family homes.

Cultivating Allies 
 

• Coordinate with state, tribal, territorial, and local public health agencies to identify which agencies or departments have responsibilities, roles, or authority related to asbestos.

• Research local and regional networks that offer education, advocacy, or direct services related to asbestos, such as nonprofits, coalitions, or service providers.

• Identify subject matter experts from federal agencies, academic institutions, or the private sector who can support assessment, interpretation, or planning activities.