Homeowners encouraged to take action as Wildfire Awareness Month begins
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging residents to complete defensible space and home hardening projects during Wildfire Awareness Month. Simple efforts on homes can significantly reduce the risk of devastating wildfire damage.
A few simple weekend projects within the first five feet of a home can determine its survival against a wildfire.
Wildfire seasons in Oregon are experiencing increased length and intensity. Research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety indicates that reducing combustible materials in the zero to five foot zone around a home can substantially lower its risk of ignition from wind-blown embers.
Oregonians can prepare for wildfires by undertaking projects incrementally. These steps include simple actions like clearing gutters, protecting vents and removing items that can catch fire near the home. Residents are advised to cover vents with one/eight-inch metal wire mesh to prevent embers from entering their homes.
Mariana Ruiz-Temple, the State Fire Marshal, said the agency has launched a summer campaign. "With the help of Bigfoot as our guide, we want you to be wildfire prepared one foot at a time," Ruiz-Temple said. "We've launched a summer campaign to show that these small steps can reduce your home's chances of loss or damage from wildfire."
Additional recommended actions include removing leaves, pine needles and other combustible material from roofs, gutters and decks to prevent embers from igniting the home. Homeowners should also remove or relocate combustible items such as furniture, cushions, trash cans and rugs at least five feet from the house. Choosing options like gravel or pavers instead of bark mulch within the first five feet of the house and keeping lawns lean, clean and green during fire season are also suggested.
Ruiz-Temple highlighted the impact of community involvement. "Oregon communities have shown time and again that when people take action, they make a difference," Ruiz-Temple said. "This month is about building momentum. If every household takes even one step, our statewide protection becomes stronger."
As residents clear their yards, they should be mindful of disposal methods, considering chipping, composting or recycling. If burning is necessary, all local rules and restrictions must be followed. Debris burns that escape control are the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. It collaborates with local fire agencies, communities and other partners to enhance fire prevention, preparedness and response across the state.
Oregonians ready to further their wildfire readiness can find simple checklists, sign up for free home assessments and get information about local events at preventwildfires.oregon.gov.
