Advice on cleanup in fire areas

San Diego County officials offer this advice on cleanup:

As some residents are allowed back into their homes and neighborhoods, there are several precautions they should take as they begin the task of cleaning up.

· Avoid disseminating ash into the air; do not use leaf blowers or non-HEPA filter vacuums.

· The Regional Water Control Quality Board asks that you avoid washing ash into storm drains if possible.

· Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants to avoid skin contact.

· If you do get ash on your skin, wash it off as soon as possible.

· Wear well-fitting dust masks; those rated N-95 or P-100 provide better protection than simple dust or surgical masks. Persons with heart or lung disease should consult a physician before using a mask.

· Lightly mist indoor and outdoor hard surfaces before gently sweeping ash, followed by wet mopping. On lightly dusted areas, a damp cloth or wet mop may be all that is needed.

· Collected ash may be disposed of in your regular trash collection. Ash may be stored in plastic bags or other containers that will prevent it from being disturbed.