Emergency Status
Aug 02

Cleaning Up Ash After a Wildfire

Returning home after a wildfire? Here are some recommendations to ensure safe cleanup of ash:

Wear Protection: Wear a tight-fitting disposable respirator (N95 or P100). Also, wear gloves, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, shoes, and socks.

Dispose of Ash Safely: Direct ash-filled water to ground areas, away from storm drains. Avoid using leaf blowers. Mist ash lightly with water, then sweep gently with a broom or wet mop.

Clean Surfaces, Fruits, and Vegetables: Wash vehicles, outdoor toys, and homegrown fruits and vegetables thoroughly before bringing them inside.

Pets and Ash: Clean ash off pets. Wash paws to prevent tracking ash indoors, and place mats at entrances.

Vacuum Indoors: To clean up ash traces inside your home, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter or an industrial one with disposable collection bags.

Dispose Properly: Collect ash in plastic bags and throw it in the regular trash.

Stay safe and take care of your health during cleanup!

For more information, including maps, please visit: www.boulderodm.gov.