As firefighters continue battling the Boyle Heights fire and extinguishing remaining hot spots, many residents are wondering what the blaze means for their health and safety.
While officials say there are currently no abnormal air quality readings associated with the fire, the visible smoke can still pose health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions.
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Saturday to provide additional support to local firefighting efforts. The declaration unlocks emergency management assistance, speeds up access to critical response and recovery resources, and brings in technical expertise on air quality from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The latest updates on the Boyle Heights fire from the LAFD
Secret Los Angeles spoke with LAFD Public Information Officer Matt Hernandez about the ongoing fire, the department’s response, air quality concerns, and what nearby residents should know.
How much of a concern is the fire for LAFD?
“The biggest concern is the structure itself. It’s massive, and the inside is built almost like a giant maze. At this point, we have a pretty good handle on the fire. There are still smoldering hot spots inside the building that we’re attacking aggressively with water cannons and continuous water streams. What’s burning now is the debris inside the building and the food that has been stored there.”
Are there any air quality concerns for the general public?
“There are no air quality concerns beyond the smoke itself. LAFD HazMat has been testing the immediate area, while AQMD, the EPA, and LA County Public Health are monitoring the surrounding area. So far, no abnormal readings have been detected. We’ll continue testing for the duration of this incident.”
Is there anything Los Angeles-area residents should do to protect themselves?
“If you’re sensitive to smoke, wear a mask and stay indoors if you can. Otherwise, follow LAFD on Instagram and X to stay up to date with the latest information and safety updates.”
Resources for Angelenos affected by the Boyle Heights fire
Free N95 masks and air purifiers
The office of Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, whose district includes Boyle Heights, is offering free N95 masks and air purifiers for residents. Residents should call 311 to request one.
Temporary shelters
- City Terrace Park: 1126 N. Hazard Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90063
- Pecan Recreation Center: 145 S. Pecan St., Los Angeles, CA 90033
Free rides
Uber announced it’s offering up to two free rides to and from one of the temporary shelters. The discount, which will be good for up to $40, is available for rides within 2.5 miles of the smoke relief centers. The offer is available through June 27th. ELASAFE26 is the promo code for this offer.
What should I do if the air quality is poor?
It is advised that when air quality is poor to stay indoors, get an air purifier, reduce emissions, and wear a mask if you must go outdoors. Here are more steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Monitor Air Quality: Check AQI updates through apps or government websites.
- Stay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed. Put water soaked towels around door and window ledges.
- Use Air Purifiers: Such as HEPA filters and DIY air purifiers with fans. Use air conditioners that recirculate air to filter out harmful particles.
- Wear Masks: Wear N95 masks outdoors to reduce inhalation of harmful particles.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous activities when air quality is poor.
- Keep Pets Inside: Avoid leaving your pets outdoors, especially at night. Pets should be brought into an indoor location, such as an enclosed garage or a house.
Air quality maps and resources
Air quality maps:
More air quality resources:
- You can check the latest air quality data on AirNow, a government-run site on air quality data.
- L.A. County Emergency Services
- CAL FIRE
- PurpleAir
- Smoke Ready California on the California Air Resources Board
Photo by @lindseyfritsch on IG.
Why is wildfire smoke a concern?
Wildfire smoke is a mixture of small particles, gases, and water vapor. The primary health concern is that those small particles can cause burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, headaches, and illnesses such as bronchitis. Sadly, people at higher risk may experience more severe effects.
Who is most at risk?
The California Air Resources Board states that the following groups are most sensitive and susceptible to poor air quality:
- Children and infants
- The elderly, specifically elderly women
- Pregnant women can be at increased risk of experiencing harmful effects from exposure to air pollution.
- People with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease including asthma
- Outdoor workers
When should one seek medical attention?
You should seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Severe coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
- Nausea
- Unusual fatigue
- For life-threatening symptoms, call 911.
For the latest updates and detailed safety information, consult official sources like L.A. County Emergency Services and CAL FIRE.
