Oregon Dept. of Forestry closes C.O. fire season

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Central Oregon District terminated fire season at 12:01 a.m. on Monday. Recent weather patterns combined with shorter days and cooler nights have reduced the risk of large fire growth.

“Under these conditions, fuels won’t be able to dry out enough to be a significant hazard and they no longer warrant the need for us to be in fire season,” said District Forester Mike Shaw.

Termination of fire season brings an increase in outdoor burning from activities such as fuel reduction, yard debris clean-up, and operations to reduce slash in managed forests.

ODF officials urge residents to onsider alternatives to burning such as chipping, composting and debris removal programs through your local landfill. Covering piles is also a good option to allow burning later in the fall, when the risk of an escaped fire is further reduced.

Fall weather can vary from day to day, and cold temperatures and wind can dry fuels and fan flames when fires are left unattended or not fully extinguished. Uncontrolled fire can result in citations and fines, as well as liability for any costs associated with suppression of the fire. Following these tips will help reduce the risk of an uncontrolled fire:

· Check with your local fire agency and/or local ODF office to determine if you need a permit, what restrictions are in place, and if it is a burn day.

· Follow all instructions on your burn permit (if one is required)

· Never leave a fire unattended.

· Keep fires small and manageable.

· Do not burn on windy days.

· Have water and a shovel available.

· Clear the area around the fire to mineral soil.

· To extinguish your fire: Drown with water and stir until it is cold to the touch.

· Report any uncontrolled fire to 9-1-1.

Burn permits can be requested on-line on Central Oregon Districts website, please visit w ww.ODFCentralOregon.com for information.

Year to date for 2017, human-caused fires have accounted for 60 percent of the fires in the Central Oregon District, burning 703 acres in 67 fires. Uncontrolled fires damage our natural resources, including air, water, and soil.