Monterey County warns homeowners to avoid ash during fire cleanup process

MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION) Monterey County is preparing for Phase 1 of cleanup for properties affected by the Carmel and River fires, and the health department shared some warnings for homeowners.

If a property has been damaged or destroyed by fire, the health department said homeowners should not disturb ash or the ash footprint on the property. Anyone returning to get valuables is required to wear protective equipment because the ash debris is hazardous.

CalEPA helps agencies during and after major fires, and their staff provides services that include emergency air monitoring, identification and removal of hazardous materials and debris and ash removal.

For more information, contact Solid Waste Services Supervisor Maria Ferdin at 831-755-8915 or Hazardous Materials Management Services Supervisor Randy McMurray at 831-796-1269.