403 Fire evacuees waiting, hoping for the best as crews continue battling flames

TELLER COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- It's been more than 24 hours since dozens of residents were forced out of their homes due to the 403 Fire.

The fire, which has burned more than 1,200 acres as of Friday afternoon, began in the area of County Road 403 in Park County. A nearby resident first alerted officials of the fire at 10:52 a.m. Thursday.

By 11:39 am., residents within one mile of County Rd. 403 and Alpine Meadow Ln. were told to get out, now.

Hours later, just after 5 p.m., residents in subdivisions in Teller County were also forced to evacuate.

While no structures have been reported lost as of Friday afternoon, it's been an emotional time for residents that are now temporarily living in shelters.

One couple KRDO spoke with Friday morning said they've donated to the Red Cross for years, but never had to use their services until now.

Janis and Kenny Murray were only able to bring just a few personal items to the Woodland Park Community Church, the shelter for Teller County residents who've had to evacuate.

Janis said she was driving back to their Florissant home around 4 p.m. when she noticed the smoke.

"It looked like smoke tornadoes in the distance," said Janis. "It kept getting worse and worse - and then I realized that's where I lived."

The Murrays started packing immediately.

"The smoke was entering into the house and it was very difficult to breathe. My husband opened the door and he said 'we need to leave' and then we got the alert," said Janis.

The first hotel they stopped at was full, and that's when they found the Woodland Park Community Church was open.

Officials say the Woodland Park Community Church will be open until all evacuations are lifted.

There is another evacuation center open, the Lake George Community Center, located at 39141 US 24, Lake George, CO 80827. 

Below is information on evacuation centers for animals:

• Large animals and livestock: Lake George Fairgrounds located at 37371 Highway 24 in Lake George, C 80827.
• Small cats and dogs: Teller County Animal Shelter, 308 Weaverville Rd, Divide. Please call 719-686-7707 with questions

Residents who need to go back to get essentials, like medication, can stop at any roadblock in the area and ask for help. They will be escorted back in.