Cleanup
General Cleanup InformationAfter you have checked for the proper functioning of your utilities and have been cleared by a County damage assessment team, you can start the cleanup of your home and property. Start to create an inventory and take photographs of things that have been damaged from fire, smoke, water, or chemicals. Do not throw away any damaged belongings or make repairs until your have spoken with your insurance company. Keep detailed records of all cleanup costs including materials and labor to submit to your insurance company or for income tax loss deductions. |
Inside Burned & Damaged StructuresAsh and debris inside burned and damaged structures may contain more toxic substances than forest fire ash because of synthetic materials present in buildings. In addition, be aware that older buildings may contain asbestos and lead. If you have a structure which contains these materials, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Dust masks will not protect you from these harmful materials. For more information on asbestos removal visit, the San Diego County Asbestos Web site at http://www.sdasbestos.org, and view the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District's site at http://www.sdapcd.org
|
If you plan to rebuild, renovate, or demolish a structure that contains asbestos, you must also submit a notice of intention to the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District at least 10 days prior to starting work. For more information, visit Asbestos Renovations and Demolition Operations. A more cautious approach should be taken in the removal of ash and other debris from inside burned structures, so make sure to keep the following in mind: |
*You can also use the long wash cycle on your dishwasher to disinfect your wares as long as it is debris free, heats water to at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit and has a heated drying cycle. |
Additional Hazardous Waste and Recycling ResourcesFor more information on how to recycle and prevent water
pollution during construction or demolition, download
the In addition, there are several permanent facilities accepting household hazardous waste. To find the closest location to you call 1-877-R-1-EARTH. Department of Environmental Health (DEH), County of San DiegoQuestions or concerns about household hazardous waste,
partially burned or exposed toxic substances visit: California Dept. of Toxic Substances Control
Ash CleanupTo clean ash, remember the three C's, Control, Contain and Capture. Control: Try to control the amount of ash particles that get re-suspended into the air. Avoid using any equipment that blows ash into the air such as shop vacuums or leaf blowers. Instead, use vacuums with HEPA filters. Contain: Contain ash by gently sweeping indoor and outdoor hard surfaces followed by wet mopping with a damp cloth. Ash may be disposed of in regular trash receptacles or in plastic bags. You may also allow water from cleaning to drain into landscaping as ash will not hurt plants or grass. Capture: Protect storm drains from ash and any cleaning chemicals used while cleaning by diverting away from storm drains or recapturing. Ash is highly acidic, which is harmful for people, the environment and aquatic life. Fact Sheet: Protecting Public Health from Home and Building Fire Ash (Safe Cleanup of Fire Ash) (PDF)
Swimming PoolsThe Department of Environmental Health has guidelines for the maintenance of pools impacted by smoke and ash contamination or fire damage. Pool Safety During Power Outages
Burned VehiclesIn case of a declared disaster, the County of San Diego will remove cars, trucks, trailers, boats, or any other vehicle licensed or required to be licensed under California Vehicle Code that has been burned in a wildfire in an unincorporated area, free of charge. Any DMV-registered vehicle damaged in the Lilac Fire is eligible to be removed through the County's abandoned vehicle program. Leave a detailed message with the Department of Planning & Development Services Code Compliance Division's complaint line. 858-694-2705 and email: PDS.CodeCompliance@sdcounty.ca.gov
Deceased Animal DisposalIf you have deceased animals on your property, it is your responsibility to remove them within 24 to 48 hours. For safety and health reasons animals must be buried,
Members of the public requiring removal of dead animals can call the County’s Department of Animal Services Emergency Dispatch at (619) 236-2341. Dispatchers will ask for the location of the animal, the type of animal, and number of animals to be removed. For information on disposal services, cremation, and landfills accepting deceased animals, contact Solid Waste Local Enforcement Agency, (858) 495-5810. For commercial livestock losses contact the County Veterinarian at (858) 694-2888. |
Stay Connected