Oregon shifts emergency center to steady state as wildfire needs ease

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- The Oregon Department of Emergency Management demobilized the State-level Emergency Coordination Center today, transitioning its activation status to Level four – Steady State.

The transition reflects current wildfire conditions and a reduced need for state-level support and supplemental firefighting resources on the ground. State emergency officials emphasized that the downgrade does not signal a decrease in wildfire risk, noting that dry conditions and wildfire potential persist across Oregon.

The activation shift allows state agency personnel who assisted response operations to return to their regular duties. Regular fire suppression and monitoring activities will continue under the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon State Fire Marshal throughout the remainder of the wildfire season.

Continuous monitoring will maintain through the Oregon Emergency Communications and Coordination Center, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. State officials stated the agency remains available to coordinate assistance and can rapidly elevate activation levels if fire conditions change.

As wildfire suppression progresses, emergency management officials are directing focus toward long-term recovery efforts. OEM will work with local, Tribal and county partners to navigate damage assessments, mitigation planning and federal recovery programs.

Alaina Calhoun serves as the manager of the Emergency Coordination Center. “OEM's transition to Steady State ensures we can continue supporting wildfire-impacted communities while also allowing state partners to return to their core responsibilities,” Calhoun said. “Our team will maintain close situational awareness, remain ready to increase activation if conditions change and stay engaged in both response and long-term recovery efforts.”

State officials urged residents to continue fire prevention efforts, including following local fire restrictions, properly disposing of cigarettes and limiting activities that could produce sparks. Drivers should keep tires inflated, prevent tow chains from dragging and avoid parking on dry grass. Residents are also advised to report smoke or fire immediately and sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov.