Governor Ted Kulongoski issued a proclamation declaring the week of May 2-8, 2010 as Wildfire Awareness Week in Oregon. This week is set aside to remind Oregonians that wildfires increasingly threaten their lives and homes. Oregonians living in the wildland urban interface are especially vulnerable to these fires.
 

Did you know that most wildfires in Oregon are human-caused and most of those are due to escaped debris burning?

During 2005-2009, there were four reported civilian fatalities in Oregon caused by burning yard debris or trash. There were six civilian and eight firefighter injuries also. Approximately 200 adult males in Oregon are severely burned each year when using gasoline or ignitable liquids to burn trash and yard debris, or light campfires or charcoal grills.

Portland Fire & Rescue and the OSFM encourage homeowners to choose a safer alternative when getting rid of their yard debris. Instead of burning it, try recycling yard debris it into woodchips or mulch, composting it, or taking it to a local yard waste recycler. 

Woodchips and Mulch

The OSFM suggests the following steps to increase fire resistance in and around your home:

• Enclose eves, fascias, soffits and sub floor vents using 1/8 inch or smaller non-corrosive metal mesh.
• Remove debris, firewood and other stored items from under decking and enclose decking with 1/8 inch screen mesh to keep out burning embers.
• Keep your roof and gutters free of needles, leaves and other debris.
• Install metal, tile, concrete, or Class A rated fire resistant asphalt roofing.
• Cover exterior walls with fire resistant materials like stucco, stone, or brick. Vinyl siding can melt and is not recommended.
• Use double-paned or tempered glass for all exterior windows.
• Consider installing a residential fire sprinkler system.

For more information on Wildfire Awareness Week 2010, click here and visit the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s official website.

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May 4, 2010