State officials in Oregon are urging drivers to plan ahead, stay informed, and travel prepared as wildfire activity increases across the state. Hazardous driving conditions, severely reduced visibility, and worsening air quality are resulting from the fires.
Preparation is Key
The Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, and Oregon Health Authority are collaboratively working to keep residents safe. Heavy smoke from the wildfires can severely reduce visibility, worsen air quality, and create unhealthy driving situations.
Alaina Calhoun, Emergency Coordination Center Manager for the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, stressed the importance of vehicle readiness for summer road trips. “If you’re planning a road trip this summer, make sure your car is ready,” Calhoun said. “Start your trip with a full tank of gas or a full electric charge, check your tires and air conditioner, and know your route ahead of time. Conditions can change quickly during wildfire season.”
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management encourages travelers to carry a well-stocked emergency car kit for unexpected delays or closures. Recommended items include a first aid kit, flashlight, and snacks.
Kacey Davey, Lead Public Information Officer for the Oregon Department of Transportation, highlighted the collective responsibility in wildfire prevention and the impact of smoke on driving. “We all have a role to play in preventing wildfires in Oregon, especially as extended drought conditions create a greater window of opportunity for roadside ignitions,” Davey said. “Smoke affects visibility as well as air quality and can lead to sudden changes in driving conditions. If visibility is poor or air quality is hazardous, consider delaying your trip. Safety should always come first.”
Staying Safe
For those experiencing stress or anxiety due to driving conditions, help is available by dialing 988. The Agristress helpline also provides support for agricultural workers. Drivers are reminded to never text while driving and to call only when it is safe, such as after pulling over or arriving at a destination.
Before traveling, individuals should check road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511. It is essential to follow all local fire restrictions and closures and be aware of smoke conditions that could affect health and visibility. When pulling off the road, drivers should stay on paved surfaces to prevent fires from hot vehicle components contacting dry grass.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
