Fire restrictions in effect for BLM lands in Oregon and Washington

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Statewide fire restrictions are now in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands across Oregon and Washington

Many local regions have implemented additional restrictions as warmer weather begins across the Pacific Northwest, urging visitors to be aware of all active restrictions and closures.

These restrictions are being highlighted by BLM leaders as a critical measure to prevent human-caused wildfires.

Visitors are advised to research their chosen destinations in advance, as specific regulations and closures can differ depending on the location and jurisdiction.

Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director, emphasized the individual's role in wildfire prevention, stating, “Every individual's choices directly impact community safety. Just one spark can start a wildfire.” Prohibited items on these lands include fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition, tracer or incendiary devices and sky lanterns.

Beyond these statewide prohibitions, many local restrictions provide guidance on when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are permitted and what type of safety equipment people should have on hand.

Josh O'Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, reiterated the importance of public cooperation, adding, “Preventing human caused fires is one of the best ways we can all work together to keep our firefighters and our communities safe.”

To prepare for fire season, individuals are encouraged to create defensible space around their homes. This involves dividing the area into strategic, tiered zones, starting with a zero-fuel buffer directly around the house and gradually reducing vegetation outward. This practice can significantly reduce wildfire intensity, prevent rapid flame spread and protect property from wind-blown embers.

Another preparation step is to assemble a Go-Bag and an evacuation plan. This includes gathering essential documents, medications, food and water for each family member in a portable bag. Residents should also pre-determine multiple evacuation routes from their neighborhood and establish a family communication plan in case local cell towers lose power.

The BLM manages approximately 245 million acres of public land, primarily located in 12 western states, including Alaska. The agency also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation, with a mission to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of America's public lands for present and future generations.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service conducts its operations in close coordination with the Bureau of Land Management. As a unified federal entity operating under the Department of the Interior, the USWFS integrates its expertise to streamline wildfire prevention, response and recovery efforts. Their shared mission is to foster fire-resilient landscapes and safeguard communities across America's public lands.

For additional information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, individuals can visit www.blm.gov/orwafire. More details on creating defensible space are available on the Firewise website.