Next Steps After Wildfire
Firefighters help create a containment line in Cold Springs Fire

Next Steps After Wildfire

Boulder County is committed to supporting any residents impacted by wildfires. General information about what to consider after a major wildfire is outlined in this Fire Recovery Guide. Please tell us other information you need by emailing firerecovery@bouldercounty.org.

Financial Assistance & Mental Health

  • Insurance Support
    If your property is damaged or destroyed, this guidance will help you get started on the road to recovery, make good decisions, and keep moving forward.
  • Wildfire & Financial Supports
    Learn how Boulder County can help those who have been evacuated or who were otherwise affected by wildfire.
  • Mental Health After a Wildfire
    A natural disaster like a wildfire can have a significant impact on emotional well-being. Take steps to ensure that you are taking care of your emotional needs during this time of crisis.

Safe Cleanup

  • Debris (Including Ash & Asbestos) Handling & Disposal
    Use caution when cleaning debris from burned structures that could contain asbestos.
  • Fire Suppressant Safety
    Learn how to safely clean up fire suppressant.
  • Food Safety After a Fire
    Food exposed to fire can be compromised by the heat of the fire, the fumes from the smoke, chemicals used to fight the fire, and power outages from the fire.
  • Safe Cleanup after a Fire
    Everyday items, such as household cleaners, fertilizers, and pesticides contain dangerous chemicals that may have spilled in or near your home during the fire response.
  • Potential Hazards in a Wildfire Area
    Working in an area that has been affected by a wildfire poses some physical risks. Learn how to stay safe.
  • Tetanus Risk & First Aid after a Fire
    After a wildfire, there is risk of injury as cleanup efforts begin. Tetanus is a concern for persons with both open and closed wounds, and a tetanus vaccination is recommended for all residents returning to the burn area who have not had a documented dose within the past ten years.
  • Wells & Wastewater After a Fire
    Wells or septic systems could be adversely affected by a wildfire, power outages, equipment failure from fire damage, or contamination of water supplies. Be prepared, and have plenty of bottled water available for drinking and cooking when you return home.

Volunteers & Donations

Volunteers: We do not need individual volunteers at this time. Volunteers are always encouraged to look for local opportunities through https://www.volunteermatch.org/ by entering a zip code.

Goods: To donate household/healthcare/clothing items, please donate to local non-profits like Our Center and Sister Carmen Community Center, and local thrift stores.

Lodging/Housing: Individual offers of housing, although very generous, cannot be coordinated through Boulder County emergency response due to legal and liability concerns.

Monetary Donations: The 2020 Fires Relief Fund has been established at Community Foundation Boulder County in partnership with Boulder County. Donations will benefit those impacted by the Cal-Wood Fire and the Lefthand Canyon Fire. Tax-deductible donations can be made any of the following ways:

  • www.commfound.org/2020firesfund
  • Mail checks made out to “Community Foundation Boulder County” with “2020 Fires Relief Fund” in the memo to Community Foundation Boulder County, 1123 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO, 80302.
  • To make gifts of stock or inquire about other options, please contact Lynda Ricketson, Vice President of Philanthropic Services, at 720-667-3557.

Options Moving Forward

Community Planning & Permitting (formerly known as the Land Use Department) is committed to assisting residents recover after a wildfire. Please email firerecovery@bouldercounty.org when you are ready to begin discussing options.

Contact Us

Community Planning & Permitting (formerly the Land Use Dept.)

Email: Ask a Planner Form
Main: 303-441-3930

Courthouse Annex Building

2045 13th St.
Boulder, CO 80302

Hours

8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday
Map and Directions

Mailing Address

Community Planning & Permitting
PO Box 471
Boulder, CO 80306
Community Planning & Permitting website