BENTON AND LINCOLN COUNTIES LAUNCH WILDFIRE AWARENESS MONTH CAMPAIGN (Photo) - 05/04/26

BENTON & LINCOLN COUNTIES, Ore. — May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and Benton and Lincoln counties are partnering to launch a coordinated campaign encouraging residents to take steps now to prevent wildfires and prepare their homes and families.

With current conditions across Oregon, fire experts are predicting a potentially difficult wildfire season. Local officials say early action and community awareness are critical to reducing risk and protecting lives, property and natural resources.

The campaign brings together the counties’ leadership, emergency management and public health to share information and resources throughout May.

“Wildfire doesn’t recognize county lines,” said Lincoln County Emergency Manager Samantha Buckley. “Working together allows us to better serve and protect our communities across the region.”

“Preparedness starts before fire season begins,” said Benton County Emergency Manager Bryan Lee. “The steps we take today can help protect lives, homes and our communities.”

Benton and Lincoln County commissioners support the campaign and emphasize the importance of regional coordination in addressing wildfire risk.

“Wildfire preparedness is a priority for our counties,” said Benton County Public Information Officer Anne Thwaits. “We are proud to partner with Lincoln County to provide clear, coordinated information that helps keep our communities safe.”

Throughout May, the campaign will highlight key topics including wildfire prevention, home preparedness, smoke and air quality, and evacuation planning, especially for vulnerable populations.

Residents are encouraged to take action now by learning more and preparing ahead of wildfire season. Staying informed during wildfire season is also critical. Residents in both counties are encouraged to sign up for local emergency alerts and follow official county channels for real-time updates, evacuation notices and safety information.

• Benton County residents can sign up for emergency alerts at: https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/linn-benton-alert/

• Lincoln County residents can sign up for alerts at: https://oralert.gov/

Residents are encouraged to take action now by learning more and preparing ahead of wildfire season. Resources are available from Oregon partners. These resources include guidance on creating defensible space, preventing human-caused fires, preparing a go-kit, understanding smoke impacts and planning for evacuations.

PREVENTION & PREPAREDNESS

Keep Oregon Green

• Wildfire prevention tips: Prevent Wildfires - Keep Oregon Green

Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM)

• Defensible space & home hardening: Oregon State Fire Marshal: Wildfire in Oregon
• Wildfire risk reduction: Oregon State Fire Marshal: Prevent Wildfires

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF)

• Fire season restrictions & prevention: Oregon Department of Forestry: Fire

Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

• Wildfire smoke & health: Oregon Health Authority: Wildfires and Smoke: Get Prepared

Oregon Emergency Management (OEM)

• Emergency preparedness (go kits, evacuation): Oregon Department of Emergency Management: Wildfires   
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management: Be 2 Weeks Ready