Following the recent fire involving materials that may have been hazardous, residents are encouraged to proceed thoughtfully.

Potential impacts may stem not only from the fire itself, but also from ash removal and cleanup activities at the burn site, which can disturb and redistribute particulate matter.

At this time, we recommend that residents carefully consider whether to call the phone number being circulated by CSX to report symptoms.

If you believe you may need to pursue legal action now or in the future, you may wish to protect your personal health information and communications for your own legal counsel. Speaking directly to a company or its representatives could create records that may not be in your best interest.

Residents are encouraged to document conditions carefully and consult their own medical and legal professionals as needed.

- We recommend maintaining a daily log - a record for yourself, your children, pets, other household members, plants, and any business

impacts.

- In addition to journaling, take pictures and videos of health conditions or environmental conditions you are seeing.

- In addition to health observations, note daily environmental conditions such as:

- temperature (hot, cold, sudden changes in temp)

- Rainfall or storms

- Wind speed and direction

- Humidity levels

- Visible ash, dust, or smoke

- Odors (type, strength, duration)

- Notable cleanup or ash removal activity at the site as environmental conditions can influence how particulates travel and how symptoms present.

For People (Adults & Children):

• Date and time symptoms begin
• Type of symptoms (coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, dizziness, eye irritation, skin irritation, fatigue, sore throat, digestive issues etc.)
• Severity (mild, moderate, severe)
• Duration and frequency
• Any unusual odors or visible dust/ash at the time
• Medical visits (provider, date, diagnosis, treatment)

- Save receipts.

- Medications taken

- Missed work or school days

- Photographs of visible symptoms

For Pets

- Respiratory symptoms

- Vomiting or digestive issues

- Lethargy or behavior changes

- Veterinary visits and treatments

For Plants & Property

- Leaf discoloration or burn

- Visible ash or dust accumulation

- Residue on vehicles, windows, or outdoor surfaces

- Changes after rain or temperature shifts

- Unusual odors

- Dated photographs documenting changes

For Businesses

• Operational disruptions
• Employee illness reports
• Lost revenue
• Cleanup costs
• Air filter replacements or HVAC servicing
• Date all entries and retain receipts or invoices where applicable.

Consider Taking Precautions

Given possible exposure from the fire and any ash disturbance during cleanup, residents may wish to:

- Keep windows and doors closed when odors or dust are present

- Monitor visible ash or dust during removal operations

- Use HEPA air purifiers if available

- Replace HVAC filters more frequently

- Limit outdoor activity when air quality appears poor

- Remove shoes before entering your home

- Wash pets after outdoor exposure

- Rinse homegrown produce thoroughly

- Wet-wipe outdoor surfaces to reduce dust recirculation

- Seek medical attention for persistent or severe symptoms

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, document carefully, observe environmental conditions, and make decisions that protect their health and legal rights. This is an advisory, the list above is not comprehensive. Consult with your own legal and medical professionals.