Quake Cleanup Poses Lung Hazard

The fallout from the Jan. 17 earthquake poses special hazards to individuals with respiratory problems, according to the American Lung Assn. Stress can trigger asthma attacks, particularly in children, and the dust particles in the air can aggravate respiratory problems.

Residents and volunteers involved in cleanup may be exposed to ashes, dust and other particulates. The group suggests the following guidelines:

* Individuals with lung or heart problems should avoid cleaning up where dust or soot is evident.

* When cleaning a dusty or sooty area, thoroughly wet the area before clean-up and wear a dust mask.

* If asbestos or other hazardous materials are present, do not attempt to clean the area. Only licensed individuals with training in asbestos removal should be involved. The Lung Assn. can provide a list of qualified asbestos contractors and consultants.

It has also developed programs to help people protect their lungs during the post-quake period. The group is providing referrals for respiratory care items and has a limited amount of funding to replace equipment for patients whose equipment was destroyed in the quake. Medical referrals are required for the program.

Call the association at (213) 935-LUNG or (818) 797-LUNG for information.

GEOLOGY/GEOGRAPHY

* The Caltech Geology Club will present a panel discussion, “Science Policy and the Future of Geology,” in the Buwalda Room, 151 Arms, on Wednesday at 4 p.m. on the Caltech campus. Call (818) 395-4652.

* Matt Ebiner of El Camino College will discuss French West Africa, Timbuktu to Togo, in a program sponsored by the Los Angeles Geographical Society on Friday at 8 p.m. in Franklin Hall 101, Los Angeles City College. Call (213) 343-2222.

HEALTH/MEDICINE

* The ancient origins and development of forensic medicine are traced in the exhibit, “Forensic Medicine: a Historical Perspective,” now at the Norris Medical Library Foyer, USC health sciences campus. Call (213) 342-1116.

PHYSICS

* The science and application of lasers will be discussed by Amnon Yariv, Caltech Thomas G. Myers professor of electrical engineering and professor of applied physics, in “Trip the Light Fantastic,” as part of the Watson Lecture Series on Wednesday at 8 p.m. in the Caltech Beckman Auditorium. Call (818) 395-4652.

SCIENCE POLICY

* “Science, Fraud and the Dingell Factor” will be discussed by author Jock Friedly as part of the Caltech Seminar on Science, Ethics and Public Policy on Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the Caltech Judy Library. Call (818) 395-4652.

BOTANY

* “Native American Uses of California Native Plants” will be discussed at the meeting of the South Coast chapter of the California Native Plant Society on Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the South Coast Botanic Garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Call (310) 519-8164.

ENVIRONMENT

* The Friends of Soka University will host an environmental walk today at 10 a.m. on the Soka University campus in Calabasas. Call (818) 880-4649.