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WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS

Oregon saw 190,500 acres burn by wildfire in 2023, the smallest acreage since 2019. But it was the third most expensive year fighting fires since 2015. We won’t know for sure how this year will turn out, but we have seen acreage and cost rise over the last 10 years. 

All of us can take steps to prepare and protect the land around us from damage. Here are 10 things you can do now to prepare for wildfire season: 
 

1. Use safe backyard burning practices. Escaped debris burning is the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in our state.
2. Use care with power equipment. Do yard clean up in the spring, not in the summer. Equipment fire usually ranks as the second leading cause of human-caused wildfire.
3. Clear a defensible space around your home. Start with 5 feet around your home, then work your way up to a 30-foot distance. This is a buffer-zone that can protect your home in case a wildfire is coming.
4. Check your home address marker – can you see it from the street? If not, trim overgrown vegetation so first responders can find you if they need to.
5. Locate two alternate routes to safety from your neighborhood.
6. Build a 72-hour kit for your family and pets.
7. Create a communication plan. Include family, neighbors and a trusted contact out of the area, preferably out of state.
8. Document your possessions and store this digitally or away from your home. A video can work for this.
9. Sign up for Lincoln Alerts to get local information, warnings, and alerts.
10. Share these tips with neighbors, family, and friends.
11. For more wildfire prevention tips, visit www.keeporegongreen.org

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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