LA County Public Health Urges Residents Near Burn Areas to Get Tested
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is providing free blood testing for lead to residents concerned about potential exposure to toxic materials. Officials urge anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to lead during the fires to take advantage of several no-cost testing options now available.
Residents can request a test through their regular medical provider, schedule an appointment at a local Quest Diagnostics lab by calling 1-800-524-5323, or attend one of several community events where on-site testing will be available.
Upcoming testing events are scheduled for April 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Santa Monica at the Arts and Literacy Festival at Virginia Avenue Park, located at 2200 Virginia Ave, and the Malibu Library on Saturday, May 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 23519 West Civic Center Way. Other locations are also available in other parts of the city, and future events can be found here.
The Department of Public Health emphasized that testing is especially important for individuals living or working near the burn areas, as wildfires can release harmful contaminants, including lead, into the environment.
