M.A.R.S. Environmental was recently featured in an San Francisco Chronicle article examining wildfire smoke contamination, insurance practices, and the California Department of Insurance’s newly formed Smoke Claims & Remediation Task Force.
The article shares the story of Eaton Fire survivor Karen Girard, whose home remained standing but was full of ash, soot, and invisible toxins. After her insurance company’s vendor identified only two heavy metals and recommended limited cleaning, Girard sought a second opinion from M.A.R.S. Environmental.
Independent smoke and soot testing conducted by M.A.R.S. Environmental revealed thirteen heavy metals, including chromium, lead, and arsenic – a significant contrast to the insurer’s findings. Based on these results, M.A.R.S. Environmental recommended replacing contaminated furniture and clothing. According to the article, the insurance company instead suggested Girard sniff the couch, and they’d take action if she could still smell smoke.
M.A.R.S. Environmental and a UCLA environmental exposure expert cited in the article cautioned that this practice could expose homeowners to toxic chemicals. Despite these warnings, the San Francisco Chronicle reports, many homeowners received similar guidance from their insurers.
Unfortunately, Karen Girard’s story isn’t unique. The San Francisco Chronicle article highlights the growing divide between insurer-led assessments and independent testing, as well as the health risks homeowners face when post-fire contamination is underestimated.
M.A.R.S. Environmental’s findings, supported by environmental exposure experts, demonstrate the importance of thorough testing and remediation standards that prioritize safety over profit.
M.A.R.S. Environmental works exclusively for homeowners, providing independent post-fire testing and remediation guidance to help families return to homes that are truly safe.
