As Maui residents are reeling from the wildfires that killed more than 110 people, they may face another consequence of the devastation: “toxic” air.

According to guidance issued by the Hawaii State Department of Health, the burn area remains hazardous, and top concerns include “toxic contaminants” present in debris and ash. The state’s health department warned dangerous heavy metals and chemicals may also be present in the ash and that people near the burn site should wear personal protective equipment to avoid skin contact.

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As Maui residents look to rebuild their communities following the wildfires that blazed through the island, they will also have to face the possibly devastating environmental impacts the disaster has left.

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Wildfire smoke is known to cause several health problems, especially breathing difficulties, as the blaze burns through materials that can release toxic chemicals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wildfire ash can irritate the eyes, nose, skin, and other parts of the body. Children; people with asthma, pulmonary disease, and heart disease; or pregnant people are especially vulnerable.

The Environmental Protection Agency is working to remove hazardous materials from the area, a process that works in two phases. The first phase includes an overall federal cleanup response, in which it will look to remove everyday products such as paints, batteries, and pesticides. Phase 2 will look to remove debris and hazardous materials such as asbestos and will be completed by an outside agency that has yet to be determined.