Evacuation orders lifted: Clackamas Co. deems apartments safe from asbestos after recent fire,
CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. — On Sunday afternoon, Clackamas County lifted the evacuation orders for the two apartment buildings at 8810 and 8820 Southeast Otty Road. Officials say air monitoring tests from multiple units as well as outside, have all registered below any level of concern for excess asbestos presence.
“Given all the information that Clackamas County has collected, Clackamas County Public Health believes the risk of significant asbestos in these surface tests will be low, and no longer warrants a recommendation that keeps people out of their home,” a statement posted on the county website stated.
The county says DEQ and EPA representatives have visually inspected the buildings as well.
Testing remains for particles on surfaces inside the building units. The county expects to get those results back on Wednesday or Thursday.
Officials say ash and debris in the area around the fire remain a concern, due to the potential hazardous material from the fire. The county says they are aware ash may be resting on the streets, on private property, and elsewhere in surrounding areas. This could extend up to one mile away in some directions.
“It is not advised to clean ash or debris up yourself. Please contact the county at EOCOperations@clackamas.us with specific details about the location and debris. If you see ash or debris, keep children and pets away until it has been cleared,” the county says.
You can watch the Clackamas County community meeting below.