Spokane Valley Fire Damage Health Guidance Updated

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  Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) issued updated health guidance for residents returning to properties damaged or destroyed by the Spokane Complex fires“Health Guidance for Residents Returning to Fire-Damaged or Destroyed Homes Aug 12, 2026 spokane complex fire, asbestos, wildfire cleanup Media Contacts Lisa Woodard, Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency and Kelli Hawkins, Spokane Regional Health District Lisa Woodard [email protected] Kelli Hawkins [email protected] Use extreme caution and follow asbestos cleanup and removal requirementsSpokane, Wash. - Residents whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the Spokane Complex fires may be able to enter their property after emergency officials authorize re-entry. However, a property being cleared for re-entry does not mean a fire-damaged structure is safe to enter, clean or occupy.”
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  The guidance was issued on August 9, 2026No usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The guidance emphasizes that cleared property does not mean a structure is safe to enter“However, a property being cleared for re-entry does not mean a fire-damaged structure is safe to enter,”
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  The guidance cites risks such as asbestos“Asbestos may be present in all homes and can be released into the air when building materials are broken, cut, swept or demolished. Lead-based paint may also create hazardous dust when damaged or disturbed. Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs and remain there throughout life. Fibers can accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation and lead to serious conditions including lung cancer and mesothelioma.”
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  The guidance cites risks such as lead“Lead and other hazardous substancesHousehold chemicals that may have leaked or been damaged by heatIf you are unsure whether a structure is safe, stay outside and contact the appropriate building, fire or emergency officials.”
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  The guidance cites risks such as damaged electrical systems“Fire-damaged homes and burned properties can contain hidden structural hazards, toxic ash, asbestos, lead, damaged electrical systems, leaking fuel or chemicals, and other dangerous materials.”
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  The guidance cites risks such as unstable structures“Even after an area is reopened, a structure and the surrounding area may remain unsafe because of:Damaged septic system tank lids, causing accidental falls and drownings, particularly for children and petsUnstable walls, roofs, ceilings or floorsDamaged foundationsBroken glass and exposed nails or metalDamaged electrical wiring or equipmentNatural gas, propane or heating-oil hazardsAsh and sootAsbestos-containing materialsLead and other hazardous substancesHousehold chemicals that may have leaked or been damaged by heatIf you are unsure whether a structure is safe, stay outside and contact the appropriate building, fire or emergency officials.”
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  Residents are advised to wear protective gear including N95 respirators“Wear a properly fitted NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator when exposure to ash or debris cannot be avoided. If asbestos is suspected, P100 or N100 masks are recommended.”
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  Residents are advised to avoid disturbing ash until a certified inspector tests for asbestos“Do not remove ash or debris until a survey (test) is conducted by an Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)-certified building inspector.”
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  The SRHD recommends residents contact officials before entering“If you are unsure whether a structure is safe, stay outside and contact the appropriate building, fire or emergency officials.”
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  The SRHD recommends residents avoid using regular vacuums to clean ash“Do not use a regular shop vacuum to clean ash because it can put fine particles back into the air.”
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  Using regular vacuums to clean ash can release harmful particles back into the air“Do not use a regular shop vacuum to clean ash because it can put fine particles back into the air.”