Wildfires in parts of the U.S. West may be transforming a benign form of chromium into its cancer-causing counterpart — potentially endangering first responders and surrounding communities, a new study has found. The research, published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications, identified high levels of the hazardous metal hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, at specific types of wildfire sites.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of California, Davis, found that the presence of chromium-6 in the air near wildfire sites was up to 10 times higher than in areas without fires. The researchers also found that the levels of chromium-6 in the air were highest in areas where the fire had burned through materials containing chromium, such as treated wood, paint, and plastics.

Chromium-6 is a known carcinogen and has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, kidney cancer, and other health problems. Exposure to the metal can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact.

The study’s findings have raised concerns about the potential health risks posed to first responders and other individuals who are exposed to smoke and ash from wildfires. Firefighters and other emergency personnel are particularly vulnerable to the health risks associated with chromium-6 exposure, as they are often exposed to higher levels of the metal due to their close proximity to the fire.

The researchers also noted that the presence of chromium-6 in the air near wildfire sites could have long-term health implications for communities living in the vicinity of the fire. The metal can remain in the environment for years after the fire has been extinguished, and can be absorbed into the food chain, potentially leading to chronic health problems for those exposed to it.

The study’s authors are calling for further research into the potential health risks posed by chromium-6 exposure from wildfires, as well as the development of strategies to reduce the levels of the metal in the air near wildfire sites.

The findings of the study are a reminder of the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect first responders and communities from the potential health risks associated with wildfires. Firefighters and other emergency personnel should be provided with the necessary protective gear to minimize their exposure to smoke and ash from fires. Communities living near wildfire sites should also be made aware of the potential health risks posed by chromium-6 exposure and take steps to reduce their exposure to the metal.

Overall, the study’s findings are a stark reminder of the potential health risks posed by wildfires. While the presence of chromium-6 in the air near wildfire sites is concerning, it is important to remember that taking the necessary precautions can help to reduce the potential health risks posed by the metal.