Wildfire season isn’t over, Oregon Department of Forestry warns

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — The Oregon Department of Forestry is warning the public to remain cautious and safe as the risk of wildfire remains high across the Pacific Northwest.

“The Oregon Department of Forestry wants to remind Oregonians that with weather fluctuating across the state, fire is still on the landscape and fire season is still in effect,” the ODFW announced on Sept. 5. “Oregon is still experiencing one of the worst seasons we’ve seen in the past decade, and the department warns the public against complacency.”

The easterly winds up to 30 mph are possible Thursday in the Cascades and the Columbia River Gorge, causing an increased concern for wildfire risk as parts of the Willamette Valley are forecast to hit 100 degrees. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning in response to the hot, dry, windy conditions. The warning remains in effect until 11 p.m. Friday.

ODF Fire Protection Division Chief Chris Cline is asking people to be mindful of the hazardous wildfire conditions.

“East winds are very common around this time of year, making now the time to prevent the next large wildfire,” Cline said. “There is still potential for more fire starts and the season isn’t over yet. The fewer human-caused fires we have, the less strained our resources will be.”

ODF Wildfire Prevention Tips:

• Debris burning is prohibited during fire season without a permit. Cover your pile and wait until fire season is over. A dry, covered pile is cleaner and safer to burn later, during wet fall and winter conditions.

• Don’t park your car over dried grass, and make sure your vehicle or ATV is regularly serviced.

• Dispose of your cigarette using designated receptacles, and NEVER discard butts on the ground or in vegetation outdoors.

• Check local restrictions before lighting a campfire.

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