Public health emergency declared due to wildfires in Ventura County

Ventura County Public Health Department officials have declared a local public health emergency in response to the Woolsey and Hill fires affecting the region.

The declaration allows county officials to coordinate with federal state, and local agencies in seeking assistance removing fire debris and other hazardous substances. Due to the combustion of building materials and household hazardous substances, residents risk exposure to toxic substances when going through debris without professional help.

More Ventura County fire coverage:

• Latest updates, statistics, map and more
• See which buildings are damaged, destroyed
• U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to visit

To minimize the health risks posed by exposure to airborne toxins and pollutants spread by the fires, the Ventura County Public Health Department recommends the public refrain from removing ash or fire debris until professional hazardous-material cleanup services can help.

For those who decide to go through debris on their own, it is recommended that they wear gloves, goggles and an N-95 respirator mask and to cover all exposed skin to avoid contact. Families are also urged to keep house pets and children away from debris sites due to the risk of stirring up hazardous substances or transferring them elsewhere.

More information can be found by visiting www.venturacountyrecovers.org.