Central Oregon Fire Management Service reminds everyone that Central Oregon is in the peak of wildfire season. Weather forecasts indicate that high temperatures will continue to dry out vegetation increasing the risk for wildfires. Interagency fire resources responded to several new human-caused wildfire starts over the last few days, which means they were all preventable. Approximately 85% of all wildfires in the United States are human-caused, and the majority are accidental.
Some outdoor activities are prone to start fires such as equipment use, grilling, burning yard debris, and dragging trailer chains. In an effort to prevent these fires from starting, the public is reminded to check and follow current fire restrictions. Information for restrictions on private lands can be found by visiting Oregon Department of Forestry : Restrictions & closures : Fire : State of Oregon. If recreating on public lands, be aware that Central Oregon public lands are currently in Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions which prohibit open fires, including wood stoves and charcoal briquette fires across the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland and Prineville BLM except within designated, developed campgrounds. Under Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions internal combustion engines, including chainsaws, are prohibited between 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more details on public use restrictions and a full list of designated campgrounds where campfires are permitted in central Oregon, visit Deschutes Wilderness Areas Added to Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions Starting July 18 | Central Oregon Fire Information.
Be prepared and stay safe during wildfires.
- Call 911 to report a suspected wildfire. Remember, if you see something, say something.
- Learn about preparing homes and communities for wildfires at www.firewise.org.
- Wildfires create smoke, which can affect people of all ages. Track wildfire smoke in your local area at AirNow.gov.
- Do not fly drones near wildfires. Drones endanger pilots and firefighters and bring suppression efforts to a stop. Learn more at https://www.knowbeforeyoufly.org/avoid-wildfires.
As you work or recreate outdoors, make safe choices, recreate responsibly, and do your part to prevent new wildfires from starting.
