Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays are a wonderful time, unfortunately, they can also bring a greater risk of a home fire. In a typical November and December, nearly 400 people in the Cascades Region will rely on the Red Cross after a home fire. December is also the peak month for home fires caused by candles and festive decorations. As you prepare your home for the holiday season, remember fire prevention is key. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. Check to make sure you have the right lights. Replace any light strings with worn or broken cords or loose connections. Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.TREE SAFETY If you plan to decorate with a real tree, pick one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk. Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source and make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. Add water to the tree every day. Never use lit candles to decorate the tree. If you buy an artificial tree, look for a fire-resistant label. When putting it up, keep it away from sources of heat. Never use electric lights on metallic trees. Think about using ...Read more

City Council to Interview Candidates, Discuss Grants, Bikeways/Walkways Committee

The Grants Pass City Council will interview potential commission candidates and discuss grants during Monday's workshop. The candidates are applying for positions on both the Historical Buildings and Sites Commission and the Urban Area Planning Commission. Following the interviews, the board will hear a presentation on the Urban Renewal Agency grant and catalyst project, followed by a Grants Pass Nexus Incubator Grant presentation. After motions for the Bikeways and Walkways Committee and an Agenda Review, the workshop will adjourn. Monday's City Council Workshop will begin at 11:45 a.m. in Council Chambers, 101 NW A Street, and will be live-streamed at www.grantspassoregon.gov. ...Read more

MPD Arrested Suspected Arsonist for Causing Series of North Medford Fires

Medford Police arrested a suspect believed to be responsible for multiple arson fires that occurred early this morning in North Medford. At approximately 4 a.m., officers responded to a reported fire at the Jack in the Box located near North Pacific Highway and Table Rock Road. The fire was quickly extinguished, resulting in minimal property damage. Then at around 6 a.m., officers were dispatched to another fire on Lynn Road near North Pacific Highway. Upon arrival, officers found three vehicles fully engulfed in flames, as well as evidence consistent with arson. A drone was immediately deployed to search the surrounding area for additional fires or possible suspects. Another active fire was located at Wild River Brewing on North Pacific Highway. As officers responded to that scene, yet another fire was observed near a residence on Berrydale Road. While checking the area, officers contacted 45-year-old Tina Marie Fonseca, who was seen leaving the vicinity of the latest fire. Fonseca fled on foot but was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit. She was lodged at the Jackson County Jail for five counts of First Degree Arson and six counts of Reckless Burning. ...Read more