If you have been notified that you are allowed back into your area, please review the following tips for a safe re-entry.
- Some residents may see colored cards on structures when they return home. The cards are based on the ATC-45 Rapid Evaluation Form. There are three colors possible. Green means it has been INSPECTED, Yellow means RESTRICTED USE, and Red means UNSAFE. The card also provides space for detailed information regarding why or how the building use is restricted or why the building is unsafe (if not obvious). If you have a card on your home and have additional questions, please call the number on the card.
- Wear sturdy shoes and be extremely cautious in the area, the recent snow could be covering unseen hazards.
- Vehicles that are parked illegally along roadways can impede operations and may be impounded.
- When returning home or traveling through the fire area, residents are asked to slow their speeds and be alert to incident personnel working in the area.
- Be aware of hazards such as weakened trees and structures.
- Once residents have returned home, they are asked to limit driving to daylight hours, to go directly to their homes, and remain in and around their home to minimize impact to closure checkpoints.
- There is no potable water in the affected area so residents should be prepared to bring bottled water with them for all water needs, including for pets. Never use water you think may be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or baby formula.
- If a customer in the re-entry area has not yet had natural gas service restored, please contact Xcel Energy at 800-895-2999.
- With the power outages, food in your refrigerator and freezer may be contaminated or spoiled. Dispose of any food that has been exposed to smoke, soot or heat or has thawed. Dumpsters will be placed in central locations for food disposal. Please do not use personal trash cans.
- As an important safety reminder, if you ever detect a sulfur or “rotten egg” smell inside or near your home, it could be the odorant Xcel puts in natural gas to help detect leaks. If you notice that smell, leave your home immediately. Do not turn any electrical devices on or off and never use any phone until you are outside and safely away from the area. Then, call Xcel at 1-800-895-2999. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
- As residents return to the fire area, if there are signs that suspicious activity has occurred, please call the Tipline at 303-441-3674. If suspicious activity is occurring, please call 911 or the non-emergency line at 303-441-4444.
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