String of residential fires in Central Oregon sparks safety reminder
(update: adding comments from Bend Fire, Red Cross)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A string of residential fires across Central Oregon this month is serving as a reminder for residents to check for hazards inside and outside their homes — and to make sure their families know what to do if a fire breaks out.
In Bend, a historic mill house was left uninhabitable. Another fire in a garage caused more than half a million dollars in damage. Two northeast Bend homes were damaged or destroyed. And in Tumalo, a house was completely taken down by flames.
No two fires were exactly the same, but Bend Fire & Rescue Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki said the conditions surrounding them are worth paying attention to.
“We’re months ahead of schedule when it comes to how dry we are,” Derlacki said. “We’re seeing heavy winds. So looking at all those possibilities outside the house as much as inside your house and trying to prevent them.”
Derlacki said some fire risks can come from common household or home improvement items, including hot tools, dry mulch, and materials used for home improvement projects. And small warnings inside your home matter, especially when it comes to electrical.
“We’re getting in the season where everyone’s starting to fix up decks and fences and stuff like that,” Derlacki said. “Have a fire extinguisher over there, have the hose ready just in case. Anything that’s mechanically or electrically going wrong, get it fixed. Don’t wait. Get it fixed.”
When a fire does force people out of their homes, the American Red Cross can be contacted by fire departments or directly by those impacted.
“No one expects a home fire,” said Isabel Anderson, communications manager for the Red Cross Cascades Region. “And it’s actually the number one disaster that we respond to at the Red Cross.”
Anderson said Red Cross responders first work to make sure people’s basic needs are met, including food, water, and a safe place to stay for the night. But support can also go beyond temporary lodging or supplies.
“Probably the worst day in your life, experiencing a home fire like this. It can be really devastating,” Anderson said. “Our responders are trained in psychological first aid. We have partners who can help your pets as well.”
Both Bend Fire & Rescue and the Red Cross say now is the time to make sure smoke alarms are working and everyone in the home knows how to get out.
“Check your smoke alarms,” Anderson said.
“Make sure everyone knows what the noise means,” Derlacki said. “You know how to get out of your home. That’s the biggest thing with house fires is just be able to get out.”
While residents cannot always predict when a fire will happen, officials say prevention and preparation can help lead to the best possible outcome.
