The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has issued a crucial advisory for property owners and others with debris or slash burn sites to monitor their burn areas closely, as dry conditions and east winds could lead to fire risks this weekend.
As the state experiences an extended drying pattern, the ODF is urging anyone who has completed a debris or slash burn recently to patrol their burn sites, ensuring that any lingering embers do not reignite. According to the ODF, embers can remain smoldering beneath the surface, even during winter, and can reignite under dry conditions.
The National Weather Service has forecasted east winds with gusts reaching up to 30 mph this weekend, heightening the risk of residual embers starting a fire.
Key Actions for Property Owners
Blake Ellis, ODF Fire Operations Manager, recommends a simple yet effective method for checking burn sites: “If you feel heat at your burn site, drown the site with water, stir, and repeat until it’s cold to the touch.” This procedure will help ensure that any remaining embers are fully extinguished.
ODF reminds Oregonians that fire risks aren’t limited to the summer months. Dry, windy conditions like those expected this weekend serve as a stark reminder that fire can happen in any season.
What’s at Stake
The dry weather, along with gusty winds, can cause burn piles to reignite unexpectedly, posing a serious risk to both property and surrounding landscapes. ODF districts across the state are on high alert and prepared to respond to any new fire starts, with similar weather patterns expected to persist through the end of the month and possibly into February.
Stay Safe and Be Prepared
Property owners and residents are urged to take these fire prevention steps seriously, especially during this extended dry spell. In addition to monitoring burn piles, the ODF encourages everyone to review fire safety and prevention measures in case conditions worsen.
For more fire prevention tips and information, visit:
- ODF Fire Prevention Page
- Keep Oregon Green
By staying vigilant and following safety protocols, we can help reduce the risk of fire and protect Oregon’s landscapes throughout the year.
Quick Summary:
- Burn pile check: ODF urges residents to monitor burn sites due to dry, windy weather.
- Fire risk: East winds up to 30 mph this weekend could reignite embers.
- Fire prevention tips: If burn site is hot, douse with water, stir, and repeat until cold.
- Weather alert: Dry conditions and gusty winds expected through Januar
More Information
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- Brief Description ODF advises Oregon residents to check burn piles and slash sites due to dry, windy conditions, with embers posing a risk of reigniting. Stay prepared and safe.
- Summary The Oregon Department of Forestry urges property owners to check their debris and slash burn sites amid dry and windy weather conditions. With gusts up to 30 mph forecasted, smoldering embers could reignite and start fires. Follow ODF’s fire prevention guidelines and stay vigilant to prevent accidents. More information on fire safety and prevention can be found on ODF’s website and Keep Oregon Green.
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