O.C. declares emergency after Tustin hangar fire spews asbestos, heavy metals into the air

Local schools were closed and health officialssuggested Tustin residents stay indoors after officials confirmed asbestos was found in ash and debris emanating from a fire destroying a military hangar on Tuesday in Tustin. Local schools were closed and health officials suggested Tustin residents stay indoors after officials confirmed asbestos was found in ash and debris emanating from a fire that destroyed a massive and historic military hangar. The pollution alert, from the South Coast Air Quality Management District came two days after a fire began to engulf one of two World War II-era hangars in the now-defunct Marine Corps Air Station in Tustin, sending large plumes of smoke into the air. The Orange County Health Care Agency is asking residents to remain indoors, close doors and windows or “seek alternate shelter to reduce exposure to smoke and ash.” Residents are also advised not to touch any ash falling from the fire, and to immediately wash any of it off if it falls on their skin, eyes or mouth.