Lincoln, Linn And Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploy Another Strike Team To East Evans Creek Road Fire (Photo) - 07/16/26

Lincoln County, — July 16, 2026 — This morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Strike Team 7 in support of the East Evans Creek Road Fire, located approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, Oregon.

Strike Team #7 is comprised of units from Lincoln, Linn & Tillamook Counties with the following resources. The deployment is being led by Strike Team Leader Mark Bernt of the City of Albany Fire Department. 

Strike Team 7 departed Lincoln County this morning at 08:00 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Medford, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 17:30 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The East Evans Creek Road Fire experienced rapid growth following its start on Friday, July 10, 2026. This fire has seen significant growth in the last 6 days, requiring additional resources. The fire is currently estimated to have burned 11,551 acres. Firefighters will continue to encounter challenging conditions as suppression efforts continue. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

Strike Team 7 represents the second deployment of resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) from Lincoln County fire agencies, this week, to assist with suppression efforts on the East Evans Creek Road Fire. These firefighters and apparatus have joined the statewide response to help protect lives, property, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase across Oregon.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I would like to thank the firefighters and agencies who answered the call to assist our fellow Oregonians during this significant wildfire incident. Their willingness to serve reflects the professionalism, dedication, and strong mutual aid partnerships that exist throughout our state.

With wildfire activity increasing across the state, we ask everyone to be vigilant and exercise due diligence with any activity that could spark a fire. Avoid using equipment that may create sparks during the hottest parts of the day, properly extinguish campfires where permitted, and never discard smoking materials on the ground or from a vehicle.

We also want to remind all residents that a debris burning ban remains in effect. These restrictions are in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during periods of elevated fire danger.

We appreciate the continued support of our community as our personnel assist in protecting Oregonians statewide. By working together and following current fire restrictions, we can help reduce the risk of additional wildfires and keep our communities safe.

Please keep the residents affected by this fire, along with all emergency responders working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts during this critical time.

Submitted by Lincoln County Fire Defense Board Chair, Chief Tom Jackson

July 16, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Summer Crime Prevention Tips (Photo) - 07/16/26

SUMMER CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, outdoor activities and, unfortunately, an increase in theft and burglaries. There are some ways you can help prevent these crimes in your communities.

• Keep vehicles locked with the windows up at all times, even when parked at home. Remove all valuables including purses, cell phones, laptop computers, gym bags, briefcases etc.

• Avoid Home Improvement scams. Beware of anyone offering to perform an unscheduled home repair or asking to gain entry into your home. Ask for identification, contact the company they say they work for to verify employment and ask for authorization for them to be at your property. Never agree to pay for home improvement services until the work has been completed. Don’t sign home improvement contracts without reading the entire contract carefully and discussing anything that isn’t clear with the company and trusted family members or friends.

• Keep doors closed and locked. This includes garages, sheds and patio doors. Burglaries from open garages, sheds and residences are more prevalent in summer months and often occur while the homeowner is outside in the backyard.

• Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something sturdy. Remember when you stop to rest, eat, or use restroom facilities, to take a few moments to secure your bicycle.

• Vacation plans? Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail. Set inside lights on a timer. Set your home alarm. Use a home security camera so you can check in while you are away. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your house and make sure to leave a contact phone number for them to reach you in case of an emergency.

Taking some simple steps now and throughout the summer months can reduce the risk of crime in your neighborhood.

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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Lincoln County Fire & Tillamook County Deploy To The East Evans Creek Road Fire, Jackson County, Oregon (Photo) - 07/15/26

Lincoln County & Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploys to East Evans Creek Road Fire, in Jackson County

Lincoln County — July 11, 2026 — On July 11, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Task Force 7 in support of the East Evans Creek Road Fire, located approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, Oregon.

Task Force #7 is comprised of units from both Lincoln & Tillamook Counties with the following resources.

North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - E13 (Type 3 Engine)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - WT16 (Water Tender)
Newport Fire Dept (Lincoln Co.) - B31 (Type 6 Engine)
Seal Rock Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B62 (Type 6 Engine)
Central Coast Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B72 (Type 6 Engine)
Nestucca Rural Fire District (Tillamook Co.) - C84 (Task Force Leader)

The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Eric Shoop of Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District.

Task Force 7 departed Lincoln County this morning at 6:30 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Medford, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 1:30 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The East Evans Creek Road Fire experienced rapid growth following its start yesterday and is currently estimated to have burned more than 1,500 acres. Firefighters are expected to encounter challenging conditions as suppression efforts continue. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I would like to thank the firefighters and agencies who answered the call to assist our fellow Oregonians during this significant wildfire incident. Their willingness to serve reflects the professionalism, dedication, and strong mutual aid partnerships that exist throughout our state.

Please keep the residents affected by this fire, along with all emergency responders working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts during this critical time.

For more information, please contact:
• Depoe Bay Fire District Fire Chief Tom Jackson
• Phone: (541) 992--6131
• Email: tjackson@depoebayfire.com

July 9, 2026, Tip Of The Week - How To Display Your House Numbers (Photo) - 07/09/26

HOW TO DISPLAY YOUR HOUSE NUMBER

Having visible house numbers to identify your address is important for guests, mail delivery, and of course, emergency personnel. It is much harder for emergency responders to find your home if your house number is not clearly displayed. Depending on the lighting and placement, your house numbers may not be visible from the street, especially at night. A poorly placed number can cost precious time in an emergency. Consider the following guidelines to help increase visibility as you display your house number.

On Your House

1. The number should be posted so that it is visible from both directions of street travel.
2. Trees, bushes, and other debris should not block visibility from the road.
3. Numbers should be placed above eye level, near the front door and well-lit at night.
4. Avoid placing numbers away from the front door such as above garage doors.

On Your Mailbox

1. Remember to mark both sides and the front of your mailbox. Do not use your mailbox as the only means of identification for your house. Numbers on the mailbox door may be great for your mail carrier, but they can be difficult to be seen by drivers during an emergency.
2. The numbers on the mailbox need to be highly visible. Remember to use high-contrast stickers or paint when adding your numbers to the mailbox. White numbers on a black mailbox are a great choice for visibility. Shiny silver numbers on a black mailbox are NOT very visible.
3. Another high-visibility option is to mount a sign above or below the mailbox. Again, use contrasting colors such as white on black.
4. If your mailbox is not in front of your house or near your driveway, emergency responders cannot use this to locate you. To help emergency responders locate your house faster, place your house number on your house or on a signpost in your yard.

Address Signs

1. The bigger, the better. The numbers should be at least four inches tall if displayed on a house or sign. Use boldface type that is wide.
2. Address signs should be placed about two feet from the driveway in the direction of the house.
3. Pick a color that will contrast with the background. If your house is a dark color, the address sign should be light so that the number stands out and can be viewed from the street. For example, a black number is perfect on a white house. A white number will also show clearly on a brick house.
4. Ensure the address sign is well-lit, especially at night. 
5. Use caution with brass or bronze numbers as they are difficult to see on many backgrounds.

Following these guidelines can save valuable time in the event of an emergency by allowing emergency responders to find your home faster. Help us help you!

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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July 2, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Sharing The Road (Photo) - 07/02/26

SHARING THE ROAD: CYCLISTS AND MOTORISTS

Cycling has become more popular as a recreational activity and as alternative transportation. As the weather continues to get nicer and more cycling events come into season, expect to see more bicycles on the road and in shared community spaces. Both cyclists and motorists have responsibility to follow traffic laws and to take additional precautions to keep everyone safe.

Bicycles on streets and highways are considered, by law, a vehicle, and are required to obey the rules of the road. This means they must follow the laws that apply to all vehicles and laws specific to cyclists. Weather, experience, and traffic can impact the safety of sharing the road. Using additional caution and patience can help keep our roads safer for everyone involved.

Motorists should remember these tips:

• When a cyclist has stopped and remains on their bicycle at an intersection or a traffic signal, they are to be treated as a vehicle waiting for their turn to proceed.
• Be alert for small children on oversized bicycles. This may increase the likelihood for loss of control.
• When passing a cyclist, go around them like you would pass another vehicle and leave plenty of room.
• When you are preparing to make a right turn, watch for cyclists who may pull up alongside you. Remember to look over your shoulder to check your blind spots.
• When pulling away from the curb, merging, or preparing to turn, check for cyclists who may be trying to pass.
• When parked at the curb, check for cyclists before opening the vehicle door. It’s the driver's responsibility not to open the vehicle door into traffic.
• Do not follow too closely behind cyclists.
• Remember cyclists are entitled to make left turns in the same manner as other vehicles.
• Be aware of roadway conditions that may affect a cyclist.
• Weather such as fog or rain impact motorists and cyclists alike. Use additional caution in hazardous areas and during times of low visibility.
• Do not sound your horn unnecessarily. If you must use your horn, tap it quickly and lightly while you are still some distance away from the cyclist.
   

Cyclists should remember these tips while using streets and highways:

• Riding against the flow of traffic is illegal and increases your risk of injury and death.
• Cyclists are required to ride in bike lanes or paths when it is adjacent to the roadway with exceptions for right and left turns and to avoid hazards.
• In areas without bike lanes, cyclists are required to ride as close as practicable to the curb, however they may need to adjust to avoid grates, potholes, debris, gravel, sand, wet or slippery surfaces, rutted or grooved pavement and other hazards.
• Keep your hands on the handlebars except when making a hand signal.
• Keep your feet on the pedals.
• Do not carry more people on the bicycle than it was designed for.
• Do not hold onto, attach yourself or the bicycle to any other moving vehicle.
• Only ride side by side on the road with another cyclist when it does not impede other traffic.
• If there is not enough room to pass safely, ride single file.
• Ensure the bicycle is equipped with at least one white light to the front and a red light and or red reflector mounted on the rear of the bicycle.
• Wear reflective clothing or gear.
• Wear appropriate protective gear.
• Ensure the bicycle has effective brakes.
• Share your cycling plans with loved ones, include where you are going and when you are expected to return.

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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OSP Vehicle/Motorcycle Crash In Eddyville Injures 13-year-old - 06/28/26

On 06/28/2026, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to a traffic crash in the 600 block of Nashville Rd in Eddyville, OR involving a motorcycle and an Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife patrol vehicle. The State Trooper operating the patrol vehicle provided the initial report of the crash to his dispatch center and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was requested to provide a third-party investigation into the incident.

Upon arriving, deputies determined that the motorcycle was being operated by a 13-year-old juvenile with a second 13-year-old juvenile passenger. Based on the initial investigation, the juveniles appeared to have been operating the motorcycle on a private property in the area before entering the roadway where the OSP patrol vehicle was driving through the area. In the roadway, the motorcycle impacted the passenger side of the patrol vehicle and the juveniles on the motorcycle appear to have fallen off the motorcycle, resulting in the passenger’s left leg and foot falling under the passenger tire or tires of the patrol vehicle. The juvenile passenger suffered significant injury to his left leg and foot that resulted in his transport to a hospital in Corvallis for treatment. Initial reports expect the juvenile to recover.

This investigation is ongoing in cooperation with OSP, and the parents of the juveniles have been notified. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office would like to remind all drivers, whether off-road or passenger vehicle operators, to be conscientious of other vehicle traffic in the area. All drivers are required by law to stop before entering roadways and to drive with due regard for the safety of others.

June 25, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Firework Safety (Photo) - 06/25/26

FIREWORK SAFETY

Summer fun is officially here, and the Fourth of July is just around the corner. For many, fireworks are a sign of celebration, however, there are some important safety measures to consider. Fireworks, loud sounds, and bright, sudden flashes can trigger vets, pets, and people with PTSD. If you choose to use fireworks, remember to check for local ordinances and regulations, be considerate of others, consider the time of day and the location, and prioritize safety.

Know the Difference and Consequences

It is important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Illegal items in Oregon include any firework that flies into the air, explodes or behaves in an uncontrolled or unpredicted manner. Some examples include firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bottle rockets, or other items of similar construction and any item containing explosive or flammable compounds.

Tablets or other devices containing explosive substances or flammable compounds are not legal in Oregon without a permit. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name, and instructions for proper use.

Possession of illegal fireworks in Oregon is a Class B Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. If you are aware of anyone selling such devices, contact your local law enforcement agency.

All fireworks are prohibited in all state parks and on ocean beaches. Violations may be punishable by fine.

General Firework Safety

Read and follow all warnings and instructions on fireworks. Be sure that people maintain a safe distance from where fireworks are lit. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials -never light and throw any fireworks.  Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.

Fireworks are not toys. NEVER give fireworks to children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory, this includes sparklers. 

Pets are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and strong smells. It is best to leave your pets safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften sudden noises. If you cannot leave your pet indoors, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times. Keep your pet’s collar and ID tag on at all times and update your pet’s license with your current contact information in case they get separated from you.

If you are traveling and plan to use fireworks, look up local ordinances that may be in place. Remember to save the address of where you are staying or using the fireworks in case you need to call 911.

Fire Prevention

Be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions. Areas are more prone to fires when the weather is warm and windy. Dry landscape greatly increases the likelihood of fire starting, not just from fireworks, but other activities that create sparks or flame.

If you choose to use fireworks, make sure the area is clear of anything flammable such as debris, furniture, and grass or shrubbery. Keep fireworks pointed away from buildings, greenery, and other areas that may catch fire. Keep a bucket of water and a hose ready to respond if needed.

Whether you are lighting fireworks yourself or watching an organized show, know the address so that you can quickly call 911 if a fire starts.
 

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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June 18, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Boating And Water Safety (Photo) - 06/18/26

SUMMER BOATING AND WATER SAFETY

With nicer weather and summer vacations in full swing, many people are taking advantage of Oregon’s beautiful waterways. On a hot day, swimming and boating can be refreshing, but there are risks you should be aware of. 

Be aware of water temperatures.
Cold water can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, changes in breathing, and can increase the risk of drowning. Water shock can happen within the first minute of exposure, leading to loss of muscle control and possibly hypothermia. Wearing a lifejacket may create extra time for help to arrive. See more information about the risks of cold-water hazards and resources on the National Weather Service page: www.weather.gov/safety/coldwater

Wear a life jacket.
Assign and fit each member of your onboard team with a life jacket before departure. Regulations vary by state, but children under 16 and all watersports riders should wear a life jacket on the water. Discover Boating has great guidelines for choosing the right flotation device: www.discoverboating.com/ownership/safety/life-jackets

Develop a float plan.
Whether you inform a family member or staff at your local marina, let someone else know where you’re going and how long you’ll be gone. A float plan can include the following information:

1. Name, address, and phone number of the trip leader and passengers
2. Boat type and registration information
3. Trip itinerary
4. Types of communication and signal equipment onboard, such as an Emergency Position
5. Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)

Take a boating safety course.
New boaters and experts alike need to be familiar with boating rules. Boating safety courses are inexpensive, offered locally, and often completed in a day, in-person or online.

Get a free vessel safety check.
The Lincoln Sheriff’s Office Marine Team and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offer complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of specific safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. Free of charge, they also offer virtual vessel exams. Contact a Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Deputy to complete your boat inspection.

Follow a pre-departure checklist.
Utilizing a pre-departure checklist is a helpful way to check the boat and ensure the proper gear is onboard.

Be weather-wise.
Always check local, route, and destination weather and water conditions before departure and ensure it is safe to go out. When in doubt, reschedule your boating, floating, or water fun.

Never drink and drive a boat.
Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal. Nearly half of all boating accidents involve alcohol. Designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock.

Be aware of carbon monoxide.
Maintain fresh air circulation throughout the boat. Educate all passengers about the symptoms of CO poisoning and where CO may accumulate.

Stay clear of the engine.
Drivers should always wear the boat’s engine cut-off switch lanyard. Keep watch around the propeller area when people are in the water. Never allow passengers to board or exit your boat from the water when engines are on or idling. Take extra precautions near boats towing skiers or tubers.

Never jump from a moving boat.
Passengers should never participate in boat jumping. Instead, wait to exit the boat once the captain has announced that the boat’s engine is off, and the boat is at a standstill. Jumping from a moving boat is extremely dangerous and can result in severe injury or death.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Team can answer questions and offers free vessel safety checks. Have a safe boating season.

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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