Today, July 11th, 2022 marks the official start of “fire season” for our region by the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association.
Many people feel that 2022 is a better year since we have been receiving a regular amount of rainfall.
However, the experts say that it would take significantly more rainfall to “catch up” with the historical drought conditions that we’ve experienced over the last few years.
The wildfire season typically begins before the 4th of July holiday, but this year is an exception since it will begin after the 4th of July.
What You Can Do
It’s important to express the need to focus on the work that needs to be done to harden and reduce the fuel load around buildings.
Some of the following actions can reduce the risk of wildfires:
- Cleaning debris from roofs and gutters;
- Installing 1/8 inch mesh screening over vents and openings;
- Trimming up trees;
- Creating adequate separation and distance between ground vegetation.
What Forest Park Users Can Do
Here are three tips for when you head out onto the trails:
Awareness: Be aware of your entry and exit points when visiting the park so that you can get help or find the best escape route in the event of an emergency.
Action: Smoking is not allowed in Forest Park or other City of Portland parks, period. Whether recreating in Forest Park or other public lands, know the rules and act appropriately. Please do your part to prevent fire in Forest Park and wherever you go.
Alert: Report any fires, no matter the size, by calling 911. Be prepared to provide accurate and precise locations.
One Community
It will only take a few hot days for our urban setting to experience the dry conditions once again that can lead to wildfires. The potential for loss of life and property remains very real. We encourage everyone to do their part. Working together to reduce that risk can make a difference and help to create a resilient community.
Learn more about ways that you can reduce the risk of wildfires on your property by signing up for a free wildland-urban interface home assessment provided by Portland Fire & Rescue.
Please visit this link to learn more and to sign up: forestparkconservancy.org/fire