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Schools, Parks, The Risk of Asbestos Dust: What to Know About Tustin Hangar Fire Recovery
The historic blimp hangar, at right, seen as it burned on Nov. 7, 2023.
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Jae C. Hong
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Associated Press
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Topline:
Tustin hangar fire cleanup crews are applying a plastic agent that is trademarked as "Gorilla-Snot" to the soil around the burnt structure to prevent asbestos from getting kicked up.
What is it? Soilworks, the manufacturer behind Gorilla-Snot, says the chemical is eco-safe and biodegradable. The glue-like substance was used by the state of Arizona in 2016 to prevent dust storms along the I-10 Freeway.
How is it being used in the Tustin hangar fire? Authorities said in a news release that crews began applying the substance on the ground to seal the hangar fire debris on Friday, with completion of the entire hangar area expected by Monday. After the stablization of the soil, "the ongoing risk of unintended exposure to asbestos is virtually mitigated," according to the news release.
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Where are we with the fire? Authorities announced Friday that the fire, which started burning Nov. 7, had been completely put out.
School and park closures: All 29 schools in the Tustin Unified School District have been inspected and cleared of debris. Two schools — Legacy Magnet Academy, and Heritage Elementary School — are still waiting for clearance to reopen for instruction.
Also, 11 out of 12 nearby parks have been inspected and reopened, except for Legacy Park.
What's next: Inspection and cleanup crews are working their way through residential neighborhoods. Residents can reach the hotline for the fire by calling (714) 426-2444, or report debris online.
Go deeper: Live Near The Tustin Hangar Fire? Here’s The Latest On The Cleanup
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