Research Study Sheds Light on Health Impacts of Marshall Fire Smoke in Colorado
BOULDER, Colo. – Nearly three years after the Marshall Fire claimed over 1,000 homes in Colorado, a research team from the University of Colorado Boulder has released findings addressing lingering health concerns among residents. Following the fire, many homeowners worried about smoke’s effects on health and air quality within their homes, prompting CU Boulder to mobilize engineers, chemists, and geographers to investigate.
Chemistry professor Joost de Goux, a lead researcher, emphasized the unique opportunity for immediate data collection due to the fire’s proximity to Boulder. Within ten days, the team was measuring air quality inside a Superior home. Their findings revealed that homes absorbed smoke like sponges, releasing toxins slowly over time. Contrary to expectations, pollutants lingered for days to weeks.
Initially, the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) inside these homes was alarmingly high, comparable to levels in 1990s Los Angeles. Fortunately, by employing simple measures—such as opening windows and utilizing DIY air cleaners made from box fans and activated carbon filters—the team observed a dramatic reduction of VOC levels, seeing over a 50% decrease in just one hour. However, this improvement was temporary, with pollution levels quickly rising again once the air cleaners were turned off.
Professor de Goux expressed relief in finally sharing the research, noting the importance of thorough analysis over speedy results. As the study highlights the long-term health implications for those living near fire-affected areas, CU Boulder encourages the community to explore the findings and their companion study on health effects post-fire. The team’s work reinforces the need for awareness and proactive measures in mitigating air quality issues following such environmental disasters.