Here are some key updates from the Buffalo Fire Community Meeting held Wednesday evening:

Fire Updates

·       There has been no new growth in the area of the fire since Tuesday evening. The fire is holding at about 90 acres and is now 20 percent contained.

·       Crews have made considerable progress in mop-up and containment. Type I helicopters were working the fire all day long. Hotshot crews have been working methodically through terrain that is quite hazardous due to heavy beetle-kill.

·       A Type 2 Incident Management Team is coming to take over the incident at 6 a.m., Thursday.

·       No structures have been lost.

·       Lightning has been ruled out as a cause. Some type of human element is likely. But the exact cause is still unknown, and the investigation could take weeks, so officials will not speculate.

·       Fuel breaks around the fire have made all the difference. They provide checks on the fire and give crews a place to anchor from. These fuel breaks have been created over the last decade by the U.S. Forest Service and many partners, including Summit County, Colorado State Forest Service, Denver Water and private homeowners.

Fire Restrictions

·       The entire White River National Forest is entering into Stage 1 fire restrictions. No campfires are permitted outside of established fire rings in developed campgrounds. Smoking is not allowed, except in vehicles or in areas clear of vegetation. Chainsaws must have spark arresters. Welding is not allowed, except in cleared areas at least 10 feet in diameter.

·       Summit County enacted Stage 1 fire restrictions on Tuesday, June 12.

Evacuations

·       Evacuees are able to access their homes inside the evacuation area from 7-10 p.m. Wednesday night. All evacuees must enter through the checkpoint at Ryan Gulch Road and Twenty Grand Road. Those entering the area must present information verifying that they live or are staying in the area past the road closure, and they must leave the evacuation area by 10 p.m.

·       When evacuations are lifted, food safety is the most significant public health concern for returning evacuees. Summit County Public Health recommends discarding any food that has been in refrigerators in residences that have not had electrical power. Dumpsters will be provided.

Mental Health

·       Coping with disasters can affect us in ways that we may not expect. Be sure to utilize mental health resources to help you process your experience. Reach out to friends and family members to check in with them and provide support.

·       The Colorado Crisis Line provides confidential, immediate support from a trained professional. Call 844-493-8255, or text “talk” to 38255.

·       The Mind Springs Health local crisis hotline is 888-207-4004.