Shared with permission from the Mesothelioma Center.
Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals made up of heat-resistant fibers. It was used in thousands of U.S. consumer products before the dangers of asbestos were known.
Asbestos causes mesothelioma, lung cancer and other cancers. Asbestos is regulated in the U.S., but not banned. See more about the products containing asbestos.
First responders and homeowners of damaged properties have a greater risk of exposure to toxic asbestos fibers that are ripped, broken, burned, blown or washed away during fires and natural disasters.
It’s important to make a natural disaster emergency plan for your family to reduce the risks of injury and harmful asbestos exposure.
Wildfires pose an additional threat because structures can catch fire and asbestos products become damaged and release carcinogenic fibers that become airborne and transportable in smoke.
If your home or neighborhood was built before 1980, you are at higher risk of asbestos exposure from a wildfire. But keep in mind that wind can blow smoke, soot and ash for miles, potentially exposing residents in nearby communities to asbestos fibers mixed into these particles.
A NIOSH-Approved Facepiece Respirator will protect you against microscopic asbestos fibers in the air. N-100 and P-100 respirators filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles. Filters with the āPā designation are also strongly resistant to oily particles.
These masks will also protect you from other hazards such as mold damage. They can be purchased online or at your local home improvement store. Disposable masks generally cost around $10 each, while half-mask or full-face respirators can be $50 or more.
The most important thing you can do to prevent asbestos exposure following a natural disaster is to have protective equipment on hand in an emergency response kit. This includes a NIOSH-approved N-100 or P-100 respirator for everyone in your household.
If you or someone you know is concerned about asbestos exposure and would like assistance with emergency planning, please contact Cuba Fire at 575-289-3456 or 505-469-4365.