Santiam Park Fire, March 21

The fire that was sparked on Tuesday, March 19, near the North Santiam State Recreational Area is a reminder of threats posed by wildfires to homes and property. The Oregon Department of Forestry reports that 42 homes and 30 outbuildings initially were threatened by the fire. The fire impacted 189 acres of brush and timber. As of 5 p.m. today, evacuation levels in Linn and Marion counties have been lifted. The Office of State Fire Marshal wants to remind residents to make sure their homes are protected from wildfire. The start of spring is a good time to take these steps: Keep roofs, gutters, and eaves clear of all leaves, pine needles, and other flammable debris. Remove dead vegetation a minimum of 30 feet around your house. Prune trees and have grass kept short and green to keep fire on the ground and more manageable by firecrews. Remember, call before you burn yard debris. Residents should check with their local fire agency or air protection authority to learn if there are any burning restrictions and if a permit is required. Homeowners have a responsibility to protect their homes by building defensible space.  For more information, visit the websites for the Office of State Fire Marshal, Keep Oregon Green, and the Oregon Department of Forestry, or call your nearest ODF or forest protective association office.