Fire Danger Increased To HIGH – Outdoor Burning Closed In Klamath County Fire District 1 - 06/17/26

Klamath County Fire District 1 (KCFD1) is notifying residents that effective 12:01 a.m. on June 18, 2026, the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) will increase the fire danger level to HIGH and raise the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) to Level II on public lands.

A HIGH Fire Danger rating means vegetation and other fuels are becoming increasingly dry and more susceptible to ignition. Under these conditions, fires can start easily, spread rapidly, and become difficult to control, particularly when winds and changing weather conditions are present.

An IFPL Level II designation applies to industrial operations on public lands and places additional restrictions on activities that could start a wildfire. This includes limiting the operation of chainsaws, mowers, and other power-driven equipment to approved operating hours, generally before 1:00 p.m. and after 8:00 p.m., unless otherwise authorized by the appropriate land management agency.

As a result of the increased fire danger, all outdoor burning within Klamath County Fire District 1 boundaries is closed effective June 18, 2026. The only exception is the use of barbecue grills operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Residents are encouraged to use extreme caution with any activity that could produce sparks or heat capable of igniting dry vegetation. Preventing human-caused fires is critical as fire conditions continue to worsen across the region.

KCFD1 asks the public to stay informed of current fire restrictions and changing conditions throughout the fire season. Additional restrictions may be implemented if fire danger continues to increase.

Wildfire Prevention Starts With You

Help protect our communities, firefighters, and natural resources by following all fire restrictions and exercising caution during periods of elevated fire danger. Together, we can reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and keep Klamath County safe.

Klamath County Fire District 1 Honors Citizens For Actions During Recent Structure Fire (Photo) - 06/01/26

Klamath Falls, OR — Klamath County Fire District 1 is proud to recognize two community members, Patrick Carroll and Lia Adamson, for their extraordinary actions during a recent structure fire in their neighborhood. Patrick Carroll received the Distinguished Citizen Service Award, and Lia Adamson was recognized with the Emergency Response Activation Award.

During the incident, Patrick Carroll demonstrated exceptional courage and quick decision-making when he observed smoke coming from a residence. He immediately alerted another bystander to call 911 and proceeded to investigate the home to determine if anyone was inside. Despite rapidly deteriorating fire conditions he encountered as he approached from the back of the residence, Patrick was able to identify and communicate with an occupant still inside.

Patrick continued his efforts at personal risk, ultimately assisting in guiding the occupant safely out of the home. When the occupant attempted to re-enter the burning structure to rescue a pet, Patrick intervened and prevented her from going back inside—an action that likely averted a tragic outcome. The occupant later referred to Patrick as a “hero.”

Also recognized is Lia Adamson, whose calm and effective actions ensured a rapid emergency response. Lia immediately called 911, provided critical information to dispatchers, and worked to confirm that an occupant was still inside the residence while simultaneously communicating with both Patrick and emergency dispatch. Her clear and composed communication helped first responders understand the urgency and conditions of the incident before arriving on scene.

“Emergency scenes are chaotic by nature, and the actions taken by Patrick and Lia made a meaningful difference in the outcome of this incident,” said Fire Chief Brent Knutson. “Their quick thinking, courage, and willingness to act in a critical moment reflect the very best of our community.”

Klamath County Fire District 1 extends its sincere gratitude to both individuals for their actions, which exemplify selflessness, courage, and commitment to helping others in times of crisis.

Vacant Structure Destroyed In Overnight Fire Near Highway 39 (Photo) - 05/28/26

At 12:48 a.m. on May 28, crews from Klamath County Fire District 1 responded to a reported structure fire near Highway 39 and Roberta Drive in Klamath Falls.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a vacant and dilapidated structure with heavy fire involvement throughout the first floor, second floor, and attic space. Fire operations were complicated by live power lines and a limited water supply in the area.

Firefighters worked quickly to search the remaining structure for potential victims while simultaneously conducting fire attack operations. Due to fire conditions and structural instability, crews ultimately transitioned to a defensive strategy.

Klamath County Fire District 1 responded with four engines, one ambulance, one water tender, and two command units. Assistance was provided by Kingsley Fire Department, Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, and Oregon Department of Transportation.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Klamath County Fire District 1 Fire Season Declaration & Burn Closure Notice (Photo) - 05/22/26

Effective May 22, 2026, Klamath County Fire District 1 (KCFD1) will enforce a closure on all open burning within District boundaries due to increasing fire danger and the onset of fire season conditions.

This closure applies to all areas within KCFD1’s jurisdiction, including the City of Klamath Falls and surrounding suburban and rural areas of the District.

Residents may view a detailed map of KCFD1 response areas by visiting:
https://kcfd1.com/fire-stations

Burn Closure Restrictions

The burn closure includes the following activities:

• All backyard and open debris burning, including branches, leaves, yard debris, and vegetation.
• Agricultural and commercial burning operations without a specifically approved non-typical burn permit issued by KCFD1.
• Land clearing, slash, waste, and debris burning operations.

Activities Allowed During the Burn Closure

The following activities are permitted during the closure period when conducted safely and in accordance with all applicable regulations:

Barbecues and Cooking Appliances

• Barbecues and cooking appliances used for food preparation are permitted.

Wood-Burning Outdoor Fireplaces & Manufactured Fire Pits

The following regulations apply to commercially manufactured outdoor fireplaces and fire pits:

• Fires are prohibited during periods of high or extreme fire danger as declared by the Oregon Department of Forestry.
• Appliances must be commercially manufactured and operated according to manufacturer instructions.
• A safety screen is required.
• Only dry wood or charcoal briquettes may be burned.
• Fires shall not be operated within 15 feet of structures or combustible materials.
• Fires must be attended by an adult at all times and completely extinguished when unattended.

In-Ground Recreational Fire Pits

The following requirements apply to in-ground recreational fire pits:

• Fires are prohibited during periods of high or extreme fire danger as declared by the Oregon Department of Forestry.
• Only dry wood or charcoal briquettes may be burned.
• Maximum fire size shall not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
• Fires must be a minimum of 25 feet from structures or combustible materials.
• Safety screens are strongly encouraged and recommended.
• Fires must be attended by an adult at all times and completely extinguished when unattended.

KCFD1 reminds the public that outdoor fires in violation of this closure may be immediately extinguished by fire personnel.

Additionally, pursuant to Oregon law (ORS 478.965), any person responsible for a fire started or allowed to spread in willful violation of this burn closure may be held financially responsible for all associated suppression costs, including firefighting response, patrol operations, equipment use, and applicable legal expenses.

Importance of Safety Screens

One of the leading causes of escaped outdoor fires is embers or burning material being carried by the wind into nearby combustible vegetation or structures. Safety screens play a critical role in reducing this risk by containing embers and airborne burning debris.

Outdoor ambiance or warming fires may still be enjoyed with a screen in place. When cooking over an outdoor fire, the screen may be temporarily removed during cooking and immediately replaced afterward to help control sparks and embers.

As temperatures rise and vegetation continues to dry, even small fires can spread rapidly and threaten homes, property, and lives. KCFD1 asks all residents and visitors to remain vigilant, exercise caution with outdoor activities, and help reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires throughout the community.

The public will be notified when burn restrictions are modified or lifted.

For additional information and updates, please visit:
https://kcfd1.com