Food, hygiene kits and PPE available for pickup for those reentering fire impacted areas

RUIDOSO—The state of New Mexico will open private shelter space in Ruidoso today to house those displaced by the South Fork and Salt Fires. The state has also established a resource box distribution center to help provide food, supplies, showers and more to those in need.

The shelter is located at the White Mountain Recreation Center, 687 Hull Road No. 659, Ruidoso, NM, 88345. The shelter will provide meals, showers, laundry services and private housing rooms. The shelter is ready to begin intake for those who cannot stay in their homes due to the fire or flooding.

Additionally, the state has established a resource box distribution center at the Roswell National Guard Armory, 1 W. Earl Cummings Loop, Roswell, NM, 88203. The boxes will include hygiene kits, personal protective equipment (PPE) and a week's worth of food. Impacted residents can also get clothing from the distribution center. The distribution center will be open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Safety Tips for Returning to Homes

Electricity, gas and water utility services may be impacted in the area. Individuals should be prepared to have loss of utility access at their home for the next several days.

Ash and sediment from the fire may contain hazardous materials. People with asthma, COPD and/or other lung conditions should take precautions in areas with poor air quality, as it can worsen symptoms.

Wear proper protective equipment such as a mask, gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirt and sturdy close-toed shoes.

New Mexico Disaster Case Management Program

Sign up for the state program at a State Disaster Recovery Center or by phone at (505) 670-4662.

State Disaster Recovery Center

Roswell Convention Center, 912 N. Main St., Roswell, NM 88201.

The center resources include language services, state records and documentation and the New Mexico Superintendent of Insurance. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance representatives to apply for federal disaster assistance.

For more resources and information, visitdhsem.nm.gov/nmwildfiresv or call the wildfire hotline at 1-833-NMFIRE6 (4736).

For the privacy and comfort of those staying in this shelter, we ask that media not enter the sheltering area. Pictures of the shelter trailers and amenities are attached.