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Post Fire FAQs

Safe & Effective Bioremediation for Your Property

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Can I bioremediate my property safely?

Yes. Use wood chips, locally sourced compost, and liquid compost. Contact us for assistance.

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Can I compost my food and yard waste?

Yes. Need help? Call us to get set up. Your food scraps and green waste nourish soil microbiology.

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How long does soil remediation take?

Biological treatment (vs. FEMA’s topsoil removal) is safer, avoiding dust spread and transport contamination. With regular compost and inoculants, soil health can improve within a month. Select plants that absorb heavy metals can be planted soon after.

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How does bioremediation work?

Like gut bacteria digest food, soil microbes break down harmful chemicals. They secrete enzymes that transform pollutants into less harmful substances, offering a low-cost, sustainable cleanup solution.

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Why use wood chips and compost instead of removing topsoil?

  • Prevents airborne contamination and emissions from hauling.

  • Introduces beneficial microbes immediately.

  • Select plants can absorb heavy metals (phytoremediation).

  • Soil can recover within weeks, allowing rebuilding to begin

 

What do health officials recommend for fire debris cleanup?

Los Angeles County & Pasadena Public Health advise:

  • Do not attempt cleanup without professional guidance.

  • Wear PPE and deep clean your home.

  • If smoke lingers:

    • Open windows (when air quality is good).

    • Run HVAC with high-quality filters.

    • Use an air purifier approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

  • Seek professional help if experiencing irritation (throat, eyes, skin). FEMA offers a $300 subsidy for cleanup assistance.

 

A Safer Cleanup Approach

301 Organics recommends using liquid compost or a biological spray before handling debris. This binds harmful particulates, preventing airborne exposure. For indoor cleaning, use a light bio-liquid mist and a paper towel.

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More guidance watch: Vimeo Video

 

What is involved in FEMA’s Phase I & II?

  • Phase I: No-cost removal of household hazardous waste.

  • Phase II (Debris Removal Options):

    • Opt-In (Free): All debris removed quickly but without bioremediation, causing particulate spread.

    • Opt-Out (Homeowner Pays): You control cleanup and disposal. Requires collaboration with an approved contractor and a soil microbiologist.

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For bioremediation support, contact 301 Organics. Call or Text 626-696-6529.

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