Oregon launches 24/7 wildfire hotline to help residents affected by fires, smoke

OREGON (KTVZ) -- Oregonians affected by wildfires or poor air quality can now access a dedicated statewide hotline for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The hotline, reached at 1-833-699-0554, was established to provide immediate access to resources for those navigating the fire season.

Gov. Tina Kotek announced the service, which is staffed by 211info, to ensure residents have a reliable place to turn for help. The hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, ranging from property loss to health concerns caused by smoke.

“During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need,” Kotek said. “That's why we've established a dedicated, 24/seven hotline – so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help.”

The hotline serves individuals who have lost property, evacuated with ongoing needs, or are sheltering in place. It also assists those affected by wildfire smoke or other concerns caused by the fires. If a staff member does not answer a call immediately, residents can leave a message to receive a return call within one business day.

The service does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help locating immediate shelter. People in immediate danger or facing a medical emergency should call 911. Those seeking information about shelters or immediate resources are instructed to call two-one-one or visit the 211info website.

Ed Flick, director of the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, noted that the fire season is already impacting a variety of populations. “This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” Flick said. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”

The Oregon Department of Human Services has expanded the scope of the hotline this year to include a broader range of impacts beyond home loss. The department has informally coordinated individual assistance following state disasters since 2020. Under current directions from Kotek, the agency is preparing to activate formal individual assistance when necessary.

These efforts come as the state prepares to establish a formal assistance program by 2027 under House Bill 4121. In addition to the hotline, people can submit their contact information and describe their needs through the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form for review by state staff.

While the hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for specific programs, staff will document needs and help identify next steps. 211info and the Oregon Department of Human Services intend to work with local communities to connect residents with existing programs.

If local resources are not enough to meet the level of need, the Oregon Department of Human Services will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.