403IC Fire – Red Cross Disaster Response Updates

Response Updates

April 2, 2023 11:30 a.m.

Local officials have rescinded all mandatory evacuation orders relating to the 403 Fire.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.

March 31, 2023 12:15 p.m.

Information from our government partners:

Teller County residents can go to the Florissant Grange 2009 Co Rd 31, Florissant, CO 80816 and meet with a deputy to be put on the list to get escorted home for meds and such.

Park County residents call Park County Dispatch at 719-836-4121 for instruction.

March 30, 2023 6:42 p.m.

The American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado is responding to the 403IC Fire burning in Park and Teller Counties.  We have opened an emergency evacuation shelter at the Woodland Park Community Church, 800 Valley View Dr, Woodland Park, CO 80863. Anyone impacted by mandatory evacuation or pre-evacuation orders can seek refuge at the evacuation center. 

Red Cross volunteers are standing by to help provide for immediate needs, supplies, support and information. Food, water, medical services and mental health services are available at the evacuation center. 

 Follow us on Facebook: @RedCrossColorado  or Twitter @COWYRedCross.