FIRE ALERT: Emergency Conflagration Act Initiated for Fires in Jefferson County

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act on Friday, July 25, for the Bench and Beachcomb Fires in Jefferson County. This action came in response to a request for assistance with life, safety and structural fire protection.

The governor determined that the threat to life, safety and property from the fires exceeds the firefighting capabilities of local personnel and equipment.

The Jefferson County Fire Defense Board Chief requested state assistance, a request that the State Fire Marshal concurred with. The declaration, made under ORS 476.510-476.610, specifically applies to the Bench and Beachcomb Fires.

Gov. Kotek’s declaration allows the state fire marshal to mobilize resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. These resources will support local fire service agencies working on the scene.