Oregon Urges Car Safety Amidst Record-Breaking Wildfire Season

Oregon officials urge fire-safe driving as wildfires threaten travel.Photo bygizmodo.com

By Kristy Tallman, July 25, 2024

SALEM, Ore. – As the 2024 wildfire season intensifies, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are urging travelers, especially those heading to Eastern Oregon, to prioritize fire safety and preparedness.

Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act on July 20 for the Durkee Fire and on July 21 for the Battle Mountain Complex Fires, which include the Monkey Creek, Snake, and North Fork Owens fires. These fires are burning in Baker, Malheur, Grant, and Umatilla counties, with the Durkee Fire having merged with the Cow Valley Fire in Malheur County.

Statewide Emergency Response

The fires have overwhelmed local resources, prompting assistance requests from the Baker and Grant County Fire Defense Boards. The State Fire Marshal has mobilized resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. Governor Kotek has also deployed National Guard resources to support firefighting efforts in eastern and southwestern Oregon.

“The wildfires in Eastern Oregon have scaled up quickly,” Governor Kotek stated. “Strong erratic winds and lack of rain are exacerbating the situation. Some communities are without power, and the situation is dynamic. Our teams on the ground are taking it day by day, and I commend the communities for their resilience and support for our firefighters.”

Travel and Safety Tips

Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about road closures via Tripcheck.com, adhere to campfire restrictions from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), and ensure they have an emergency car kit. Suggested items for a basic emergency car kit include:

• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Car cell phone charger
• Blanket
• Map
• Cat litter or sand for tire traction in ice
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help if the air is smoky or dusty
• Plastic sheeting, scissors, and duct tape to shelter in place if needed
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, toilet paper, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Printed maps of the local area in case you lose service
• Cell phone and a backup charger
• Cash or traveler’s checks
• A fire extinguisher you know how to use
• Extra water and snacks in case you get stuck for a while

ODOT also advises using U.S. 20 for east-west travel across central and eastern Oregon, ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained, and checking road conditions on Tripcheck.com before traveling. Additional fire safety tips for travelers include staying on paved surfaces, avoiding dry grass, not discarding flammable materials, and securing chains to prevent sparks.

Preparedness Resources

For more tips on wildfire prevention and preparing your vehicle for road trips, visit the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website and Ready.gov/car. Additionally, the "Be 2 Weeks Ready" initiative offers resources to help build self-reliance and community preparedness.

By Kristy Tallman, July 25, 2024

The Republic News

Source: Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

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