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From Kate J. Skinner, Tillamook District Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry
Northwest Oregon entered fire season June 22nd and quickly moved into High for the majority of the area. We know Oregonians are coming to the Coast to escape the heat but there are some key things to remember:
- Know before you go. Check to see what public fire restrictions are in place before leaving home. Campfires, off-road driving, fire tool and water requirements, etc.
- Regardless of campfire restrictions, only have campfires in approved campgrounds.
- Forget the campfire if the wind is blowing. Use a portable cooking stove with propane bottles.
- Make sure the campfire is dead out before heading to bed or leaving the area.
- Make sure vehicles are in good operating condition (exhaust systems, catalytic converters, coolant, brakes, dragging tow chains).
- Target shooting should only take place in clear areas, free of rocks and hard surfaces that could cause sparks from ricochet. Some state and federal forests have designated areas.
SALEM, Ore. – All Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands are now in fire season. ODF’s 12 fire-protection districts start, and end fire season based on local conditions. Fire season means certain activities are restricted to help prevent human-caused wildfires. Fire season generally ends in mid-October. The North Cascade District was the last to declare fire season. The Southwest Oregon District led off, declaring its start on May 12.
Debris burning is a leading cause of wildfires. Generally, fire season means no more debris burning, although burn permits may be issued in certain situations. Burning without a permit can lead to a citation. Violators are held liable for firefighting costs if their debris burn escapes.
Fire season restricts other activities too. Fire season laws limit or prohibit campfires, mowing grass, cutting metal and welding, using power saws, and other spark-causing activities. For example, during low fire danger level, mowing may be allowed. But, during moderate, high, and extreme fire danger, mowing may be restricted or prohibited. Protection districts determine restrictions based on fire danger. During fire season it is illegal to use fireworks, tracer ammunition, and exploding targets on ODF-protected and other state and federal lands.
Stay informed of current restrictions by visiting ODF’s Fire Restrictions & Closures website or calling your local ODF office. To learn more about preventing human-caused wildfires, visit Keep Oregon Green.
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land from wildfire.
Website for statewide industrial and public restrictions
https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/Pages/restrictions.aspx
Tillamook State Forest blog
