Ash left behind from structure fires can contain a variety of toxic heavy metals ranging from lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, copper, and arsenic. These metals can leach into the soil and water system and get carried away by humans and animals walking on or around the burn site. The ash can be inhaled and absorbed through the lungs and skin.

When a home burns down, not only does the family and community experience the trauma related to it, but community members also remain vulnerable to the contamination left behind.

This contamination often goes unaddressed, creating an unsafe site for workers, families, animals, and children. Similarly, when there is a large wildfire, fire suppressants often contain contaminants in the form of PFAS, which are known as “forever chemicals” that can leach into water and soil and remain without breaking down on their own.  PFA’s have a number of health risks associated with them, including increased risk of cancer, liver damage, and immune system defects.