Wildfire season hits: Tips on being ready, just in case

After a lightning storm blanketed Central Oregon with more than 600 lightning strikes, fire season is officially here. Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook county sheriff’s offices, along with Project Wildfire, would like to take this opportunity to remind residents this is the time to prepare for fire evacuation, if they have not already.

Know your evacuation levels, Ready, Set, Go, and have your 5 P’s: People, Pets, Pills, Photos, important Papers, and your 72-hour kit ready to go.

Make sure your 72-hour kit has: a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, prescription pills, eyeglasses, any essential equipment for infants/elderly, water, sleeping bags, clothing for each family member, important documents and your 5P’s. Keep these things in a spot in your home that is easily accessed so you can leave in a hurry.

” During fire season, making sure that you and your family are always on ready for an emergency evacuation can make all the difference “, says Alison Green, Program Director Project Wildfire. ” Having a plan and a emergency 72-hour kit ahead of time can allow for your family to take some extra precautionary measures if you are given a Level 1 Notice.”

As the fire danger increases, the local Sheriff’s Office and their partner agencies want to ensure you understand the three level evacuation system and where to get current information regarding fire activity.

Level 1: Be Ready

There is an incident in your area and residents should be aware of potential evacuation. Be aware of the danger, monitor emergency services sources and local media for information. Those persons who will need additional time to exit an area or have health conditions (especially respiratory conditions that could be made worse by smoke) should consider leaving. You are encouraged to prepare or even move livestock and pets out of the area. Be prepared to leave if conditions worsen.

Level 2: Get Set

There is significant danger in your area and residents should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice. You are encouraged to leave and should do so as soon as possible. If you choose to stay, you should be able to leave immediately if conditions worsen. You MAY have time to gather necessary items, but doing so is at your own risk. Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until the hazard subsides.

This may be the only notice you receive. Emergency services cannot guarantee we will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate.

Level 3: Go Now!

There is immediate and imminent danger and you should evacuate immediately. DO NOT DELAY LEAVING to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home. Leave immediately and as quickly as possible. Drive carefully, turn on your headlights, and follow any directions from emergency services personnel. Entry to evacuated areas will be denied until the hazard subsides.

One integral piece is making sure your cell phone is registered to receive emergency notifications. This can be accomplished on Everbridge Notification registration page , which is used in all three counties to notify residents of emergency situations.

Fire season is also a great reminder, that YOU are our greatest resource when it comes to protecting homes and neighborhoods. With some simple steps you are able to protect your home and community from a wildfire. Remember to keep your defensible space defined, keep grass and weeds cut low and always be prepared to respond to wildfire. With this in mind, Project Wildfire urges you to take a look around your property in the “home ignition zone” where glowing embers can ignite spot fires and vulnerable areas like decks, patios and fences that can spread flames to your home.

For a Ready, Set, Go Guide visit projectwildfire.org/evacuation . Visit www.firefree.org or www.firewise.org for more information about how you can prepare your property for wildfire season.