The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is encouraging Oregonians to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season by staying informed, having an emergency plan and packing a go-kit.
People can find an evacuation checklist, "live" wildfire and evacuation maps, and wildfire preparedness and prevention tips at "wildfire.oregon.gov.
OEM Director Erin McMahon said Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system structured around the readiness need and threat level. She said people should be familiar with the "Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now" evacuation levels and their meaning.
Level One (green) means BE READY to evacuate. Be aware of the danger in your area and prepare to leave. Level Two (yellow) means BE SET to evacuate. There is significant danger in the area and people should be ready to leave with short notice. Level Three (red) means GO NOW. Leave immediately because there is extreme danger and it is unsafe to stay.
People should also evacuate anytime they feel unsafe as conditions can change rapidly.
Being prepared and knowing what to do when you receive an evacuation notice can help keep you and your household safe during a wildfire or other disaster.
According to the Oregon Department of Forestry, the 2024 fire season in Jackson and Josephine counties will begin this Saturday, June 1st.
