Swift Creek and the Sumas River, from Goodwin Road to Sumas, are known to have significant amounts of naturally occurring asbestos in the water and sediment.  Areas that experience flooding from Swift Creek or the Sumas River may have depositions of sediment that contain asbestos.  When the sediment becomes dry, the asbestos can become airborne.  Breathing airborne asbestos may present a risk to human health.  The Whatcom County Health Department is recommending that any potential exposures to asbestos from flooding be avoided or minimized.  Potential exposures can be reduced by:

• Performing cleanup activities by wearing rubber gloves, boots and HEPA respirator.  Rinse gloves and boots when done.
• Vacuum interior areas that may have been flooded with a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
• Remove shoes or boots before entering homes or other buildings, to prevent spreading sediment containing asbestos, and use doormats.
• Use a wet rag rather than a dry rag to clean surfaces.
• When cleaning outside areas, such as driveways or walkways, keep the sediment wet to prevent asbestos from becoming airborne.

Additional information on naturally occurring asbestos in Swift Creek and the Sumas River can be found at www.whatcomcounty.us/health/eh/index.jsp .

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