Public health officials believe the increased levels could be from the burned homes, which were painted with lead-based paint.

Here’s what public health experts suggest residents can do to protect themselves from potential fire-related contaminants found in soil.

Preliminary soil sample testing in the Eaton Fire burn area revealed a high percentage of lead, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. These results, released Thursday, come as residents in the affected areas are looking to rebuild their homes.