FAKE EMAIL: Warns of Acid Rain, Uses LA County Fire Logo

A fraudulent email bearing the seal of the Los Angeles County Fire Department is circulating that warns of acid rain dangers as a result of radioactive discharge at a Japanese nuclear power plant.

A press release from L.A. County fire states that the fraudulent email has the subject heading "Acid Rain Precautions," bears the County of Los Angeles Fire Department logo, and states that radioactive particles from the Fukushima Plant in Japan could mix with rain and cause "burns, alopecia or even cancer." 

“The County of Los Angeles Fire Department has not issued this statement nor do we believe the statements within the e-mail to be factual,” Public Affairs Battalion Chief Jon O’Brien said.

Residents within Los Angeles County seeking information on the potential impact from the release at the Fukushima Nuclear Plant are advised to obtain their information from a reputable agency.

Additionally, individuals are reminded to use caution when viewing e-mails and to always verify the source of their information.

For information relating to the potential impact on the U.S. from the release at the Fukushima Nuclear Plant visit:

• County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health
• California Department of Public Health
• Environmental Protection Agency
• United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission