State fire marshal urges caution, gives wildfire prevention tips

As Oregon’s weather heats up and vegetation dries out, State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is cautioning Oregonians and summer visitors to be vigilant with wildfire prevention and safety.

“Oregon has already experienced a number of human-caused wildfires,” said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. “It’s fortunate that no lives have been lost to this point, and we all need to take every precaution to ensure that doesn’t happen.”

The OSFM encourages everyone to follow these wildfire prevention guidelines:
Know fire risks and obey fire restrictions, such as campfire bans.
Avoid parking or driving on dry grass as hot vehicles can start a wildfire.
Vehicles are required to have a shovel and fire extinguisher or at least a gallon of water in many areas.
Do not use candles, fireworks, tiki torches, or other open flames in wildland areas.
Remember that sky lanterns are illegal in Oregon airspace.
Dispose of smoking material in deep, sturdy ashtrays.
Make sure butts and ashes are extinguished with water and sand.
Never discard butts on the ground or in vegetation.

For more wildfire prevention information and restrictions, we encourage you to visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov.