Local state of emergency declared after historic hangar goes up in flames in Orange County

County and city officials have declared a local state of emergency on Thursday after poor air quality, asbestos and toxins were found after a fire destroyed a historic air base hangar in Tustin.

On Wednesday, samples of debris and ash were collected in areas near the hangar and lab testing confirmed the presence of asbestos lead, arsenic and nickel, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

Residents are urged to “exercise caution to reduce exposure during the clean-up of structural fire debris,” said the Orange County Health Care Agency.

According to the emergency proclamation from the city of Tustin, health officials have “conducted air quality samples which showed elevated levels of chemicals of potential public health concerns.”

Air samples collected from public areas near the hangar and in local communities are also being analyzed for “gaseous air toxics, such as benzene.” Long-term environmental testing is anticipated as results are being processed. 

“Everyone should be aware of the recommended precautions to reduce the health effects of smoke and ash from building fires,” said Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, County Health Officer and OC Health Care Agency’s Director of Public Health Services. “Extra measures may be needed for those with pre-existing medical conditions like heart or lung disease, those with disabilities, older adults, children, and those who may be working outdoors.”

The fire was discovered on Tuesday at the former Marine Corps Air Station. Flames engulfed the north hangar, also known as Hangar 1, which was mostly destroyed.

The twin blimp hangars – which measure 17 stories tall, 1,000 feet long and 300 feet wide – have been at Warner Avenue in Tustin since World War II and have been home to a fleet of blimps and eventually helicopters. The hangars were decommissioned in 1999.  

They are two of the world’s largest freestanding wooden structures and both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property is still owned by the U.S. Navy and the investigation will eventually be turned over to the military.

Those who may be impacted by windblown smoke, dust or ash should take these precautions:

• Limit exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seek alternative shelter to reduce exposure to smoke and ash.
• Avoid touching ash as ash from burned structures is generally more hazardous than forest ash.
  • Limit or avoid activities that will displace ash into the air.
  • Avoid direct contact with ash. If you get ash on your skin, in your eyes, or in your mouth, wash it off as soon as you can.
  • People with heart or lung disease, including asthma, older adults, children, and pregnant women should use special caution around ash.
  • Children and pets: Children should not be nearby while you clean up ash. Do not allow children to play in ash. Clean ash off all children’s toys before use. Clean ash off pets and other animals.
  • Wash off ash from vehicles or outdoor toys or outdoor furniture  
• Avoid vigorous activity.
• Remove shoes before entering your home .
• Spray your patio with water instead of sweeping it.
• Avoid using leaf blowers .
• Run your air conditioner or air purifier. If possible, do NOT use swamp coolers or whole-house fans that bring in outside air.
• If you will be outside, a properly fitted N95 or P100 respirator may provide some protection.
• Keep your airways (nose and mouth) moist by drinking extra amounts of water.
• People with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors.
• Seek medical attention if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.
• Minimize exposure to other sources of indoor air pollution — avoid using anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves — including candles or incense.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. No injuries have been reported so far. Results from the debris and air quality testing will be posted here.