Cooler – But, Still Wildfire Season in Oregon, Sept. 13

Even with the cooler overnight temperatures, wildfire season is still in effect. A red flag warning was issued for today expiring at 9:00 p.m. The recent fire in the Mountain Gate area, commonly referred to as Potato Hill, provides a reminder that wildfires don’t just happen in the forest. Eugene Springfield Fire and our quick responding partners at the Oregon Department of Forestry were able to protect the homes in the vicinity and get the fire under control. Many residents in the area watched the fire fight closely pondering the “what ifs”. There are things you can do around your property to help protect it from wildfire. – Create a defensible space around your home by clearing away brush and using fire-resistant landscaping. Clear needles and debris from the roof; Cover vent opening with metal mesh; Remove combustibles from under decks and porches; Prune low hanging branches 6 to 10 10 feet from the ground; Remove flammable items within 30 feet of all structures including firewood piles, portable propane tanks and dry/dead vegetation; – Assemble emergency supplies and belongings in a safe place. – Plan escape routes. Learn more at firewise.org