To avoid potential health problems due to the removal of ash generated from the wildfires, San Diego County residents were encouraged to take precautions when cleaning their properties.

According to a statement from National City's Paradise Valley Hospital, the ash deposited by forest fires is relatively nontoxic, but could contain small amounts of cancer-causing chemicals.

If breathed, the ash may be irritating to the nose and throat and cause coughing and could bother the skin, hospital officials said.

To avoid possible health problems Paradise Valley Hospital officials recommend that residents:

do not allow children to play in the ash

wash off children's toys before allowing them to play

clean ash off house pets

wear gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants to avoid skin contact

wash ash off skin as soon as possible

wash fruits or vegetables grown outdoors thoroughly

avoid getting ash into the air by not using leaf blowers and other machines that blow air around

not use Shop-Vacs or other vacuum cleaners that do not have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters

wear a well-fitting dust mask

gently sweep off indoor and outdoor hard surfaces followed by a wet moping to remove ash

deposit ash in a plastic bag and then put it in a trash can

The car parts business AutoZone reminded motorists that ash can also harm vehicles and occupants.

Harmful substances inside a vehicle can be up to six times more concentrated than in the air outside. Most vehicles are equipped with a cabin filter in the heating and air conditioning system, which, if clean, will trap nearly all airborne contaminants, but if they are dirty they will be less effective.

The company recommended having both cabin and motor air filters checked, and replaced if needed.

Meantime, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons advised residents who have been exposed to smoke from wildfires to be aware of the potential hazards to their eyes.

Exposure to smoke can cause irritation, with symptoms such as burning sensations, redness, and tearing.

"Even a healthy person's eyes can be bothered by prolonged exposure to smoke," said Dr. Robert N. Weinreb, distinguished professor of Ophthalmology at UC San Diego and clinical correspondent for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "Exposure to smoke can also exacerbate symptoms for some patients, particularly those with dry eye syndrome."

Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief from smoke-related irritation. If symptoms persist for longer than several days, you should consult your ophthalmologist.

One hazard to your eyes can linger even after the smoke is gone. Barely visible ash and dust can remain in fire-devastated areas for up to two weeks after fires have been extinguished. Many firefighters recommend using protective eyewear while in these areas, especially when moving objects that may be coated with ash or fine dust.

Additional Tips

Do not start any clean up in the unincorporated area of the county until you have been cleared by a County damage assessment team. You could jeopardize your FEMA or insurance claims.

Residents returning to fire damaged homes need to take many precautions. The San Diego County Department of Environmental Health warns that hazardous materials as well as structural damage pose serious threats to your health and safety. It is strongly advised you take some basic safety measures when cleaning up your property.

If your home was damaged, check with your local utilities company. Make sure gas and electricity are turned off before entering the area. SDG&E Phone: (800) 411-SDGE.

Before sifting through debris, using a face mask, spray ash with a fine mist of water to minimize health impacts from breathing dust particles.

If you have a propane tank system, contact a propane supplier, turn off valves on the system, and leave valves closed until the supplier inspects your system.

If you have a heating oil tank system, contact a heating oil supplier for an inspection of your system before using.

Avoid damaged or fallen power poles or lines, and downed wires.

Immediately report electrical damage to authorities. Electric wires may shock people or cause further fires. If possible, remain on the scene to warn others of the hazard until repair crews arrive.

Be careful around burned trees and power poles. They may have lost stability and fall due to fire damage.