What To Do If You Get An Evacuation Notice, And Other Wildfire Questions Answered

June 13, 2018

Photo: 416 Fire | June 10 Sat Photo Digital Globe - AP — This June 10, 2018, satellite image provide by DigitalGlobe shows the 416 Fire northwest of Hermosa, Colo. At right Highway 550 is visible.

Wildfire season in Colorado kicked off with a series of high-profile blazes in the state's southwestern corner. Some residents forced from their homes because of the 416 fire north of Durango have been allowed to return, others remain evacuated.

And a new blaze in the heart of Colorado's ski country spurred hundreds more evacuations Tuesday as firefighters mounted a full-air assault on the Buffalo Fire in Summit County.

With several months of hot, dry weather remaining, it's likely they won't be the last wildfires Coloradans will have to worry about.

Photo taken earlier today. Stay tuned to https://t.co/hcdQjWOO2n for the latest information. #BuffaloFire pic.twitter.com/Qw8lryTaPq
— Summit County, CO (@SummitCountyGov) June 13, 2018

La Plata County public affairs officer Megan Graham and 416 Fire spokeswoman Jamie Knight spoke to Colorado Matters about what to do if your home is put at risk by fire. Don't be surprised if you receive a pre-evacuation notice despite being miles from the blaze -- activity can change quickly, and firefighters need clear roads to respond just as fast.

And evacuation is more than just leaving, you'll have to prepare too.

Fire experts say before you go, move furniture away from windows, remove shades and curtains and shut off the gas. It's also wise to turn on your house lights so firefighters can see your home in thick smoke.