After big fires like those in California in October of 2007, folks need to know what to do about the huge quantities of ash both outdoors and ash that has gotten indoors. Some ash is toxic, but most that comes from burnt brush is relatively harmless and is similar to the ask in a BBQ, fire place or campfire. All ash will contain some cancer-causing toxins.
Most ash does cause irritation to eyes and skin, if you are sensitive. For those with asthma it can trigger asthma attacks and therefore you if this is an issue you should avoid it. The Online Think Tank recommends to wash the off ash with water, hosing it down. Do not sweep it or use an air-blower. Shop vacuums are not very affective with removing ash, and although such a solution is tempting, it is ill-advised.
It is also recommended to wear a dust mouth-cover, full covering clothing and either sunglasses or goggles if you are going to get in close to blast it with a pressure washer or high PSI garden hose nozzle. If you are going to do sweeping plus hosing, do the sweeping very lightly to reduce putting too much dust in the air. Try to not hose the ask into storm drains, creeks or run-off areas, as it will go directly into the environment.
When hosing down, the purpose is not to flood it out, rather to prevent ash and dust particles. Use as little water as possible and then put the ash into plastic bags and throw it out. If the ash is from a structure, it can be very toxic and must more serious, so consult someone about this, older buildings may have asbestos or other building materials that are very toxic when burned. I hope this article helps you and good luck on your clean-up. Sincerely, Lance.
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