Health district urges caution as Spokane residents return after complex fire

An agency official with the Spokane Regional Health District advised residents returning to homes after the Spokane complex fire to prioritize safety, check for smoke or ash, and examine utilities before re-entering. "Take your time and put your safety first," the official said, and directed people to the health district website for detailed guidance.

The official outlined immediate steps: wear appropriate personal protective equipment (masks, long sleeves, gloves and protective eyewear), avoid dry sweeping ash, and replace HVAC and air-purifier filters. The official said most homes are in "tier 2" neighborhoods and that some tier 1 residents will receive PPE kits delivered to their doors. Residents with safety or service questions were told to call Spokane 311.

The guidance emphasized protecting respiratory health and avoiding disturbance of contaminated soil or ash until authorities advise otherwise. The official also reminded residents to discard refrigerated or frozen foods that lost power and to follow the Washington State Department of Health instructions for cleaning surfaces and textiles.

The health district closed by urging people not to attempt utility repairs themselves: "If your gas is off, you should call Avista Utilities at (800) 227-9187. Leave this work to the professionals," the official said. Residents were told to wash hands and faces after handling ash and to call professionals if they see damage to infrastructure.