Drinking water guidance issued for those affected by ‘Aspen Acres’ fire

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is issuing drinking water guidelines for evacuees of the "Aspen Acres" fire.

CDPHE says once re-entry is allowed for residents, bottled water should be used for the following uses until further notice:

• Drinking
• Making ice
• Making baby formula
• Brushing teeth
• Washing dishes
• Preparing food

Officials say residents can still use tap water for showering and doing laundry. Boiling water is not a substitute for bottled water, and would not remove fire-related chemicals, according to CDPHE.

→ Find the latest Aspen Acres fire information and evacuations here

According to officials, during a fire, heat can cause additional water quality concerns. They also say losing pressure in a water system allows germs in.

Residents with private wells should wait until the well area is inspected before using them.

CDPHE says it will work with other officials and emergency management partners to confirm when the water is safe for drinking.

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