PRESS RELEASE

DECLARATION

Yolo County, in coordination with state and federal partners, is conducting an environmental review to assess potential impacts from the July 1 fireworks facility explosion known as the Oakdale Fire in Esparto. To facilitate the review, Yolo County’s Public Health Officer has declared a Local Health Emergency for properties impacted by the incident.

Declaring a Local Health Emergency does not mean that the site is unsafe. Rather, it acknowledges that the explosion site may pose health risks, and that testing is needed to determine its safety. This declaration allows the county to identify materials stored or used at the explosion site, conduct environmental sampling, and request support from state partners for testing and any needed mitigation measures.

Fireworks are known to contain hazardous materials, including heavy metals and oxidizing agents. Debris, ash, and dust from the explosion may pose hazards to humans, animals, and the environment. The environmental review will determine whether hazardous materials are present in the soil, water, air, or vegetation in and around the explosion site, and in what amounts. The first step of this review is to test the soil, air, and water. Once test results are available, Yolo County and its partners will develop science-based recommendations to mitigate any identified environmental hazards in order to ensure the safety of people and animals who live, work or consume food grown at the site. Any necessary remediation measures such as soil removal, water filtration, or targeted cleanup will be implemented in compliance with state and federal law.

On July 8, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors declared a Local Emergency for the Oakdale Fire. The newly issued Local Health Emergency is separate from that declaration and focuses specifically on public health-related resources enabling the county to seek additional support and potential reimbursement for mitigation measures on privately-owned properties.

“Today’s local health emergency declaration for the Oakdale Fire allows Yolo County to request support from state and federal health agencies for testing and any necessary cleanup if hazardous materials from fireworks are found in the soil, water, or air at or near the explosion site.” said Dr. Aimee Sisson, Yolo County Public Health Officer.

Until the environmental review is complete, residents within an approximately half-mile radius of the Oakdale Fire incident are encouraged to avoid contact with ash or debris, to not consume food or water that has come into contact with ash or debris, and to follow any safety advisories issued by County and State officials.

Yolo County remains dedicated to keeping the public informed as more information becomes available. Community members are encouraged to stay updated through the Oakdale Fire Resources Page at www.YoloCounty.gov for the latest updated and resources.

For media inquiries, please contact Laura Galindo, Yolo County Interim Public Information Officer at (530) 341-9865.