10.08.26 - Vehicle Crash Leads To Water Rescue (Photo) - 10/08/26

Vehicle Crash leads to Water Rescue

October 8, 2026 – Newport, OR
 

On October 8^th, 2026, at approximately 1:18 PM, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a report of a single vehicle crash near SE Shady Cove Ln. The initial report indicated the vehicle crashed into the Alsea Bay and was partially submerged, approximately 40 feet from the shoreline. When deputies arrived on scene, they located a Gray Subaru Outback submerged in the water up to the windows. Deputies saw an individual who appeared to be trapped inside the vehicle and heard him calling for help. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Deputies acted swiftly, locating a small boat nearby, and rowed out to the vehicle. 

Once at the vehicle, Deputy Jacob Wright forced entry into the vehicle and established an elderly male driver, who was the sole occupant, was in distress and not able to get himself out of the vehicle. Deputy Wright exited out of the boat, entering the bay, and was able to get the elderly male out of the vehicle, holding him above water until Central Oregon Coast Fire personnel arrived. Deputies assisted fire personnel in loading the patient onto a Jet Ski and took him to shore, where PacWest Ambulance personnel were waiting to begin treatment and transport of the patient. 

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office would like to commend Deputy Wright’s swift and selfless action in rendering aid to an individual in crisis. His actions embody LCSO’s commitment to providing our community with outstanding service, ensuring the safety and quality of life of all our community members. LCSO would also like to thank our first responder partners for their assistance in safely resolving this incident.

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Lincoln County Communities And Individuals Encouraged To Participate In Annual Great Oregon Shakeout (Photo) - 10/08/26

October 8 – Lincoln County, Oregon

Lincoln County residents live on the Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Faultline. This means it is even more important for our communities to be informed and prepared.

Lincoln County Emergency Management is encouraging community members, businesses, and community groups to participate in the annual Great Oregon ShakeOut. This event provides a chance for you to practice what you would do during an earthquake. While the official event takes place on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 10:15 am, you can practice your drop, cover, and hold during the days leading up to or directly after the drill.

Participants in the Newport Marina and Bayfront areas may hear the NOAA siren at approximately 10:15 a.m. on October 15 as part of the drill.

It is important to register if you participate. By registering you will help Lincoln County Public Safety agencies document the high level of preparedness in our community. Participation in this event shows that we are working together to strengthen our community resiliency and emergency preparedness. This event also provides a good reminder to update your emergency plans and supplies.

Below is a graphic on the annual summary of participants here in Lincoln County. So far, 5974 have registered for this year.
 

Oregon ShakeOut Statistics - https://www.shakeout.org/oregon/whoisparticipating/

More information on earthquake and tsunami preparedness:

Great Oregon ShakeOut:

• Registration & General Information: www.shakeout.org/oregon/
• Recommended Earthquake Safety Actions: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Recommended_Earthquake_Safety_Actions.pdf
• Earthquake Country Alliance: Welcome to Earthquake Country! https://www.earthquakecountry.org/accessibility/
• Earthquake Guide for People with Disabilities: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Earthquake_Guide_Disabilities_AFN.pdf
• Media – PSA Resources: www.shakeout.org/oregon/resources/index.html#multimedia

Lincoln County Emergency Management

• Cascadia Earthquake Factsheet: www.oregongeology.org/pubs/fs/cascadia-planning-for-em-and-public.pdf
• Earthquake and Tsunami Emergency Guide: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/DocumentCenter/View/2062
• Hazards: Earthquakes: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-earthquake
• Hazards: Tsunamis: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/772/Hazards-Tsunamis
• Main page: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/708/Emergency-Management

CDC

• Preparing for an earthquake: https://www.cdc.gov/earthquakes/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.cdc.gov/disasters/tsunamis/

Ready.gov

• Earthquakes: www.ready.gov/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.ready.gov/tsunamis

Red Cross

• Earthquake Safety: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/earthquake.html

Emergency Management Programs (In Alphabetical Order)

• City of Lincoln City https://www.lincolncity.org/residents/emergency-preparedness
• City of Newport newportoregon.gov/emergency/default.asp
• Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians https://ctsi.nsn.us/east-lincoln-county-cert/
• Lincoln County https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement

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Respectfully submitted,

Samantha Buckley
Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management
225 W. Olive St., Newport, Oregon 97365
sbuckley@co.lincoln.or.us (541) 265-4199 Office
 

October 8, 2026, Tip Of The Week- 4 Weeks Cascadia Ready (Photo) - 10/08/26

4 WEEKS CASCADIA READY

Emergencies can happen anytime. Sometimes help may not arrive for days or even weeks, especially after big disasters like earthquakes or wildfires. In Lincoln County, we recommend being ready to take care of yourself and your family for at least 4 weeks. This is called being “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready.”

What does this mean?

• Have enough food, water, and supplies for everyone in your home for four weeks. This includes pets.
• You may need things like medicine, first aid supplies, flashlights, and extra batteries.
• Plan for how you will stay clean, cook food, and stay warm if the power is out.

How to Get Ready

Be Informed

• Learn about the dangers where you live, like earthquakes, storms, and floods.
• Know your local evacuation routes.
• Sign up for emergency alerts with Lincoln Alerts.

Make a Family Plan

• Talk with your family about what to do if you are not together during an emergency.
• Practice your plan at different times and places, like home, school, or work.
• Plan to check on neighbors and people who may need extra help.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Pack at least 4 weeks of food and water for every person and pet.
• Include a battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, dust mask, face coverings, plastic sheeting, duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties, wrench or pliers, manual can opener, local maps, and a cell phone with chargers and power banks.

Find more information and resources at:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Plan and Prepare Resources
• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Hazards: Earthquake
• Be Ready – Make a Plan
• Be Ready – Build a Kit
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Red Cross – How to Prepare for Emergencies
• Oregon Emergency Management – 2 Weeks Ready

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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October 1, 2026, Tip Of The Week- Driving In The Rain (Photo) - 10/01/26

DRIVING IN THE RAIN

Along with the official start of fall comes our rainy season. For some, driving in the rain, especially in the dark, causes anxiety. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, “nearly 5,700 people are killed and more than 544,700 people are injured in crashes on wet pavement” each year.

But being behind the wheel while it’s raining doesn’t have to be a nerve-racking experience. Here are some tips for driving in a downpour:

1. Think. Drivers need to stay alert and focused on what’s going on around them, especially during rain and other stormy weather.

2. Turn on headlights. It’s the law in all states to turn on headlights when visibility is low. Many states also require having headlights on when the windshield wipers are in use. While Oregon does not require motorists to turn on headlights when wipers are used, this can help increase visibility. Well-working wipers are an essential for driving in rain.

3. Beware of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is what occurs when your tires are getting more traction on the layer of water on the road than on the road itself, resulting in your car sliding uncontrollably. It’s easy enough to hydroplane: All you need is one-twelfth of an inch of water on the road and a speed of more than 35 miles per hour. If you start to hydroplane, let off the accelerator slowly and steer straight until you regain control. Before rain, snow, or freezing temperatures begin, it is important to have quality tires for increased traction and safety.

4. Turn off cruise control. On rain, snow, ice, or other slick surfaces, cruise control may cause you to lose control. If you hydroplane while in cruise control, your car will actually go faster.

5. Slow down. Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions. That means driving when there is little traffic and good visibility. Plan for more time to get to your destination when it is raining.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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Quarterly Coffee With A Deputy - Yachats (Photo) - 09/25/26

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM for a cup of coffee at Dream Machine Coffee (131 Highway 101 North, Yachats, Oregon 97498).

More about these quarterly events:

Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
 

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
 

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September 24, 2026, Tip Of The Week- Hunting Safety (Photo) - 09/24/26

SAFETY TIPS DURING HUNTING SEASON

In the Pacific Northwest, many enjoy the great outdoors while hiking, camping, or hunting. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or just starting out, safety should always be the top priority. Before you grab your gear and start your next adventure, check out the hunting safety tips below.

Tip for Hunters:

• Check the weather and plan accordingly.
• Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return. Leave a written plan at home and in your vehicle.
• Be familiar with the area and plan for local hazards.
• Consider using technology such as a handheld GPS, cellphone apps that use GPS, personal locating beacons (PLBs), or satellite messengers. These can help searchers find you if you are lost or injured.
• Avoid wearing white or tan during hunting seasons. Wear hunter orange and make sure it is viewable from all directions.
• If accompanied by a dog, the dog should also wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat, or bandana.
• Check hunting equipment before and after each outing and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.
• Always bring rain gear and additional clothing. Use layering techniques to prevent moisture while retaining body warmth.
• Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it.
• Clearly identify your target before shooting to prevent accidents or fatalities.
• Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails. Other recreationists are in the forest as well.

Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts:

• Wear bright clothing to make yourself more visible. Choose colors that stand out, like red, orange, or bright green, and avoid white, black, brown, earth-toned greens, or animal-colored clothing. Orange vests and hats are best.
• Protect your dog. Get an orange vest for them.
• Be courteous. Once a hunter is aware of your presence, don’t make unnecessary noise to disturb wildlife and avoid confrontations.
• Make yourself known. If you do hear shooting, raise your voice, and let hunters know that you are in the area.
• Know when hunting seasons are. You may choose to continue to hike but learn where and when hunting is taking place. Consider hiking midday when wild game and hunting activity is at its lowest.
• Know your own comfort level. If hunting makes you uneasy, choose a hiking location where hunting is not allowed, such as a national or state park.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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September 17, 2026, Tip Of The Week- Private Timber Lands (Photo) - 09/17/26

PRIVATE TIMBER LANDS
 

Those who enjoy traveling the back roads of our private timber lands may have found locked gates or restricted access. This leaves some people to believe private timber companies deny access to their lands simply because they don’t want private citizens on their property. This is not the case.

With the exception of active commercial use such as logging or harvest of other forest products, the closures are in reaction to the ever-increasing incidents of offensive littering, abandonment of vehicles, theft of forest products, and acts of criminal mischief. Some common acts of criminal mischief include destruction of property caused by 4X4s and ATVs riding in unapproved areas, destruction of road access gates, and more.

Damage and theft detract from the natural beauty of our forests and incurs costs for cleaning, repairing, and removal of vehicles and garbage. These costs are passed onto private timber companies as well as taxpayers in the county.

What can each of us do to stop the defacing of our forests and waterways? During your visit and when you leave forest lands and waterways:

• Read signs posted at entry points into private & public lands – signs include important information including log truck activity.
• Report criminal acts to law enforcement.
• Report located dump sites or abandoned vehicles.
• Stay informed of possible land use restrictions. This information is usually posted at each access.
• When in doubt about access, contact the landowner or your Lincoln County Sheriff’s office Forest Patrol at (541)-265-4277.
• Do not discard glass, cans, rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or litter other than in receptacles provided for these items.
• Report anyone observed hauling trash or debris into our forests.
• Consider bringing a trash bag or two to pick up trash you observe.
• Do not discard any glass, cans, rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or litter in any waters of the state.
• Do not drain, cause, or permit to be drained, sewage or the drainage from a cesspool, septic tank, recreational or camping vehicle waste holding tank or other contaminated source, upon the land of another without permission of the owner, or upon any public way.
• When target shooting, be sure to pick up brass, targets, and anything else used during your visit.
• Do not permit any rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or other refuse to be thrown from a vehicle you are operating.

Our forestlands, public and private, should be treasured and protected by everyone. Through our efforts, we can strive to regain the trust of the private timber owners. The challenge for each of us is to take pride in where we live and work and clean up our county.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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