SPOKANE, Washington — As evacuation orders are downgraded, the City of Spokane is guiding residents through safely returning home and addressing fire-related hazards.
The Spokane Regional Health District advises residents to inspect their homes for smoke, ash, and damaged utilities. Visit the health district’s “After a Wildfire” website for detailed guidance on identifying potential hazards.
Getting proper protective equipment
Before entering homes, residents need personal protective equipment including N95 masks, long sleeves, gloves, and protective eyewear. Most residents in Tier II neighborhoods should wear N95 masks. Residents in Tier I neighborhoods will receive PPE kits delivered to their homes.
Others can pick up masks, water, and printed guidance at these distribution points:
Indian Trail Shopping Center, 3321 W Indian Trail
River Ridge Shopping Center, 4427 W Wellesley Ave
Five Mile Park N Ride, 1762 W Five Mile Road
Corner of 9 Mile Road and Royal Drive, 7202 N Nine Mile Road
Cleaning your home
The Washington State Department of Health recommends washing hard surfaces with mild, soapy water and a damp cloth rather than dry sweeping. Replace HVAC and air purifier filters immediately and check them frequently. Clean all exposed dishware, counters, clothes, and textiles.
Avoid using leaf blowers, mowers, or brooms that throw dust. If vacuuming, use a HEPA filter vacuum. Outside, avoid disturbing contaminated soil or ash until authorities provide further guidance.
Managing utilities and water
Food in refrigerators and freezers that lost power should be discarded. Extra garbage bags can be placed out at no cost on regular collection days. Call Spokane 311 to report damaged carts.
Do not attempt to restore water or natural gas service yourself. Call Spokane 311 for water restoration or contact Avista Utilities for natural gas service.
The City of Spokane’s Water Department confirmed it is delivering safe, clean water in fire-impacted areas. Residents who haven’t used water for more than a week should flush their plumbing by turning on all cold-water faucets one at a time, leaving each running briefly, then turning them all off. Also, flush outdoor hose bibs, refrigerator water dispensers, and washing machine supply lines.
For more information, visit the Spokane Regional Health District’s “After a Wildfire” website or call Spokane 311.
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