08/08/2026
Residents Returning Home Urged to Use Caution Around Wildfire Ash and Debris
CALAVERAS COUNTY, Calif. - As residents affected by the Gann Fire are allowed to return to their homes, Calaveras County health officials are urging residents to use caution around homes and properties damaged by the fire.
“Being allowed to re-enter and determining whether a fire-damaged property is safe are two different things,” said Lisa Medina, Environmental Health Director. “Until assessments are done, we are asking residents to avoid distributing ash and debris and to take these hazards seriously.”
When a home or other structure burns, materials from the building and its contents can become part of the remaining ash and debris. Homes and structures damaged by wildfire may contain:
- Fine particles of ash, dust, and soot that can become airborne and inhaled
- Heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, copper and mercury
- Asbestos-containing materials from damaged structures
- Hazardous household materials including damaged propane tanks, batteries, air-conditioning equipment, cleaning products, pesticides and herbicides.
“We know how deeply personal it is to want to return home and recover the things that matter to you,” said Dr. Rene Ramirez, Calaveras County Health Officer. “But some of the health hazards left behind by a wildfire cannot be seen or smelled.”
Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions may be especially vulnerable.
If exposure to wildfire ash or debris cannot be avoided, take precautions:
- Wear a properly fitted N95 respirator
- Avoid distributing ash – do not sweep, blow or unnecessarily move ash or debris
- Keep children and pets away
- Do not drink tap water until the water supply has been confirmed safe
- Wash hands thoroughly after any contact with ash and change and wash clothing that has been exposed.
Environmental Health and partner agencies will begin assessments of affected properties and identify potential health and safety hazards. Additional information about property assessments, debris cleanup and precautions for affected residents will be provided as it becomes available.
Media Contact:
Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency
(209) 754-6399
