Escaped debris burns on rise; officials urge caution

Escaped debris burns are the leading human-caused fire issue in Oregon. In recent weeks, fire agencies in Central Oregon have responded to numerous fires caused by rekindled and escaped debris burns.

Central Oregon fire chiefs warn that recent precipitation and cooler temperatures may give a false sense of reduced risk associated with burning yard debris. However, this weather pattern will soon be replaced by warmer and drier weather, with increased potential for rekindled fires and increased rate of spread from burning material.

“Even leaving your fire unattended for a moment can lead to fire spreading to adjacent fuels and can quickly get out of control,” explained Prineville Unit Forester Gordon Foster.

With wildfire season just around the corner, fire agencies have seen an increase in preventable wildfires, burdening the agencies’ workforce.

It is unlawful to leave your burn unattended at any time. Before leaving your burn, ensure that it is cold to the touch. Property owners are encouraged to take advantage of local landfill recycling programs including Fire Free events and use alternate methods such as chipping to eliminate the material.

When burning, follow the practices below to reduce the potential for escaped fire. Immediately call 911 if your burn gets out of control.

Safe practices to follow when burning backyard debris:

* Call before you burn. Check with your local fire department or Department of Forestry to determine if you need a permit and if burning is allowed.

* Don’t burn on windy days.

* Keep the fire small, less than 4′ in diameter. Add material as the fire burns down.

* Clear the area around the fire to mineral soil for at least 10′. Including above your burn area, make sure there are no branches or power lines above.

* Have tools on site, including a shovel and water.

* Monitor your fire at all times.

* Do not use accelerants to start your fire.

* Burn only yard debris-organic material.

* Make sure your fire is completely out and cool to the touch. Revisit the burn area in the following days and weeks to verify the burn has not rekindled as the weather warms and winds blow.

For information for reducing wildfire impacts in Deschutes County visit www.projectwildfire.org, and for more tips on wildfire prevention visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org.