403IC Fire – Red Cross Disaster Response Updates

Local officials have rescinded all mandatory evacuation orders relating to the 403 Fire. All areas under mandatory evacuation have been downgraded to pre-evacuation. Residents that evacuated may return home but should be prepared to again evacuate should fire behavior change. Only residents will be able to enter areas under pre-evacuation. All other areas previously under pre-evacuation remain under pre-evacuation. 

Smoke & Ash Reentry Guidance:

Ash from forest fires is for the most part non-toxic and quite similar to ash from a fireplace or campfire. However, toxic substances may be found in the ash and debris from burned structures This can be harmful to human and animal health and the environment due to the synthetic and hazardous materials present used to build. Some older buildings may contain asbestos and lead.

As residents are allowed to return to their homes, they should be prepared to protect themselves from smoke and ash that may still be heavy in the area. Inhaling smoke is not safe for anyone, even if you are healthy and have no pre-existing medical conditions.

Fire ash may:

• Irritate the skin, nose, and throat
• Trigger asthmatic attacks or worsen other chronic respiratory disease symptoms.
• Those with chronic heart and lung disease, pregnant women, children, and the elderly are more likely to be affected by ash inhalation.

To limit exposures and prevent health risks:

• Do not allow children to play in the ash. Wash ash from toys before allowing children to play with them.
• Wash ash off household pets.
• Wear gloves, long‐sleeved shirts, and long pants when cleaning ash, and avoid skin contact. If ash does get on your skin, wash it off as soon as possible.