DENVER -- Elevated levels of airborne asbestos forced about 200 tenants to evacuate a 188-unit apartment building Saturday, authorities said.

The high asbestos levels were discovered in the common areas of the building after a recent fire in the basement that released asbestos.

The Colorado Public Department of Health and Environment ordered the evacuation of the Penwood Place Apartments, so the building could be decontaminated, health officials said in a news statement.

The tenants had to immediately leave their residences and won't be able to return until the cleanup is completed, officials said.

For displaced tenants seeking additional information related to this incident, please contact Susan Pass, Manager of Penwood Place Apartments at (303) 832-5432 or the Situation Hotline at (720) 641-4232.