Three months after our family moved to Colorado, on December 30, 2021, our area was hit by the Marshall fire. Similar to Los Angeles, downslope winds raced from the mountains, fueled by warm air and pressure changes as they moved into the lower elevations where we lived.
I remember taking the kids to the basement because I was concerned about our upstairs windows breaking from the wind. Fifteen minutes later, my husband texted to ask if we were OK because a large fire had broken out. I walked upstairs to see thick smoke out the window. I could no longer see the house across the street.
I grabbed the kids, the dog, and my purse. Then, I packed a handful of diapers, snacks, and water in a bag and left. We didn’t lose our home that day, but over a thousand homes were destroyed in what became the most destructive wildfire in Colorado’s history.
As a new Colorado resident, I knew little about fire risk and what to expect after a wildfire. After living near the Marshall fire, I better understand what to expect after a fire and the steps I can take to prepare for future fires.
Our community came together
Thousands in our community lost their homes. Many who still had homes standing required substantial professional remediation before being safely lived in again. Housing was already in short supply and it became a more significant challenge after the fire, as people needed places to stay while homes were rebuilt, remediated, or sold.
When we returned home, we exchanged numbers with several neighbors we hadn’t talked to much before. The Marshall fire started and spread so quickly that many were alerted by texts and knocks on the door instead of the emergency alert system.
The destruction was surreal, but the community stepped up. Everyone we encountered was doing something to help. People opened their homes and quickly assembled donations and supplies.
It may be a while before the fire is truly contained
Firefighters must be able to put out the fire completely, so you might not be able to return to the area immediately. You may hear the term “mopping up.” Even though a fire appears out and contained, there can still be hot spots or burning embers that aren’t evident to us. Firefighters work hard to control the fireline and reduce the risk of reignition.
Put personal safety first
Fires present multiple risks. In their wake, they leave unstable structures and trees, scared animals or lost pets, and physical hazards such as sharp surfaces and nails. Traffic patterns often change, and emergency personnel decide when residents can safely access burned or evacuated areas.
Air quality is also an issue, as fires release chemicals and ash into the air. One of my children has asthma, and we mostly played inside in the days following the fire.
Personal protective measures are important, such as closed-toe footwear, long sleeves and pants, a well-fitting N95 mask, and goggles. It’s important to remain observant and, if possible, wash clothing after spending time at a wildfire site.
Be aware of fire suppressants
The fire suppressants and retardants you see planes dropping near wildfires contain ammonia. Nitrile gloves, long sleeves, and goggles are recommended in these areas, as the ammonia can irritate the skin and eyes. Avoid using bleach to clean the residue, as toxic gasses can form when the two are combined.
I felt on edge for a while after the fire
When the Marshall fire happened, I was home with four kids ages 4 and under. Somehow, I left with all four kids, the dog, and a bag over my shoulder in one trip out the door. I couldn’t find our cat and felt gutted about leaving him behind.
I drove away from the fire to a school parking lot. I finally took a breather, collected myself, and updated my husband. To this day, every time I drive past that parking lot, I feel a pang in my stomach.
The devastation in Los Angeles is horrific. My experience does not begin to compare to what those communities are facing. I was able to get out easily and drive to safety. My home was not destroyed, and I had somewhere to return to.
What I do now to make sure I’m prepared
I was unprepared when we first moved to Colorado. After the Marshall fire, I felt anxious whenever a red-flag warning indicating a high risk of fire was issued or another windstorm kicked up. Sometimes, I’d look out the window and check for smoke — just in case. Having a plan and being prepared helped me feel like I could return to our daily lives.
Here’s how I make sure I’m ready:
After living in Colorado for several years, it feels more like home than anywhere else. Yet, as much as I love our home, I still get worried whenever Colorado’s infamous winds pick up. But I feel calmer knowing that I better understand fire risk, what happens after a fire, and how to prepare as much as possible beforehand.
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