Fire Marshal Encourages Oregonians Take Action for Wildfire Awareness Month
The Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging Oregonians take part in defensible space or home hardening projects to kick off Wildfire Awareness Month.
According to the Fire Marshall, research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety shows that reducing combustible materials in the 0-5-foot zone can significantly lower the risk of a home catching fire from wind-blown embers.
Oregonians can be wildfire prepared by taking projects one step at a time like clearing gutters, protecting vents, and removing things that can catch fire near the home.
Other projects include using gravel or pavers instead of bark mulch within the first five feet of the house, and keeping lawns watered and cut during fire season
Consider chipping, composting, or recycling. If burning is necessary, always follow local rules and restrictions. Debris burns that get out of control are the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon.
Wildfire readiness checklists and free home assessment sign-ups can be found at preventwildfires.oregon.gov.
Posted on 5/4/26 11:07AM by Alex Bauer
