Lingering Hazards: Altadena Residents Face Toxic Aftermath of Wildfires

Tue Jan 06 2026 20:18:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Altadena's residents return to homes affected by last year's destructive wildfires, they confront a persistent danger from lead and other toxins. Community efforts highlight the urgent need for proper cleanup and support.

One year after the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, Altadena residents are grappling with the toxic aftermath left in their homes. Hazardous materials such as lead and asbestos still pose health risks, forcing many to question the safety of their living conditions despite professional cleaning efforts. Community groups are calling for better insurance policies and contamination testing, as residents like the Malones deal with health issues and anxiety stemming from toxic exposure.

ALTADENA, Calif. — One year has passed since the destructive wildfires ravaged parts of Los Angeles, leaving behind a toxic legacy for the residents of Altadena. Homes are marked with signs warning of lead contamination, and the air quality has been a lingering concern as families begin to move back in.

House cleaners and hazardous waste personnel are frequently seen in protective gear, attempting to erase the remnants of ash and debris left behind. Yet many families are left feeling unsafe in their own homes once deemed sanctuaries.

The January 2025 fires claimed the lives of at least 31 people and obliterated nearly 17,000 structures. For those whose homes survived, the aftermath has presented an unconventional battle—one not just for repairs or rebuilding, but for assurance regarding the safety of their living environments.

Homes still contain harmful levels of lead and other toxic chemicals released during the fires, with recent tests showing alarming results. A community report indicates that more than 60% of inspected homes still have hazardous levels of lead, exceeding federal safety standards by nearly 60 times.

The Malone family, after returning to their home, found that despite cleaning efforts, harmful levels of lead persisted. Nina Malone reported frequent sore throats, while her husband Billy experienced worsening respiratory issues. The toxic remnants have also left them feeling that their home has transformed from a safe haven into a source of unease.

Community groups like Eaton Fire Residents United are advocating for better remediation practices and insurance policies that support thorough contamination testing and cleanup. Experts warn that both children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure's health risks.

Families, navigating the complexities of insurance coverage and overwhelmed by the emotional toll, are left questioning the safety of their homes. As they confront the shadows of the past, families like the Malones are determined to clean and secure what remains, despite the challenges ahead.