Free Blood Lead Testing Available Today in Pasadena, Prompted By Eaton Fire Concerns

Free blood lead testing is being offered Sunday to local residents concerned about potential exposure following the devastating January Eaton Fire, which left elevated lead levels in soil samples across at least two area neighborhoods.

The testing is available today (Sunday, April 27) from noon to 5 p.m. at Eaton Health Village/Pasadena Seventh Day Adventist Church, located at 1280 E. Washington Blvd.

The free blood lead testing is part of a limited-time initiative by Los Angeles County Department of Public Health aimed at addressing health concerns related to wildfire-related lead exposure.

Residents who cannot attend today’s mobile testing event can get tested by visiting their medical provider, with testing covered by most insurance plans including Medi-Cal, or by calling 1-800-LA-4-LEAD to schedule a free appointment through Quest Labs, according to the Los Angeles County Coordinated Joint Information Center.

The testing comes after recent soil sampling in two Pasadena neighborhoods revealed lead levels above 80 parts per million, which indicated the need for further evaluation.

Children under 6 years old are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure because they are more likely to put their hands in their mouths after touching soil or even eat it.

Officials note that children can be exposed to lead by swallowing, through prolonged skin contact, or by breathing in lead-contaminated soil, which can be tracked indoors on shoes or clothing.

The source of lead in the Eaton Fire ash is expected to be from the burning of older homes, the City of Pasadena reported.

City officials announced good news regarding lead levels at local parks. On April 26, restrictions were lifted on outdoor activities on exposed soil in parks following soil testing results that showed lead levels below California’s screening threshold.

“These test results demonstrate there is no evidence that levels of lead or other heavy metals are harmful to health at these city parks,” said Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health, in a statement released by the City of Pasadena.

Another free blood lead testing opportunity has been scheduled for Saturday, May 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. during a La Pintoresca Park Family Fun Day, at 45 E. Washington Blvd. in Pasadena.