As Oregon braces for one of its driest wildfire seasons in over a decade, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to prepare thoroughly. With counties across the state declaring drought emergencies, the risk of wildfires is significantly heightened.
Prepare Your Family and Home
OEM recommends that every household member, including pets, have a go-bag ready. These bags should contain essential items needed for a quick evacuation. Families are encouraged to create and familiarize themselves with an evacuation plan. Resources and tips are available on OEM’s Be2WeeksReady page and the wildfire evacuation checklist at wildfire.oregon.gov/prepare.
Individuals with disabilities should plan for transportation and equipment needs, while those with special medical requirements should arrange for sheltering at facilities that can accommodate them. Pet and livestock owners are advised to prepare emergency kits and arrange for transportation and shelter in advance, with resources available at Ready.gov/pets and the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
Stay Informed and Connected
Residents should sign up for alerts at ORAlert.gov and ensure their contact information is current. It’s also important to follow local emergency services on social media and have a backup communication plan in case cell towers are affected. Developing a family PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) plan is crucial for maintaining communication during emergencies.
Insurance and Recovery
Whether renting or owning, residents should review their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate wildfire coverage. Standard policies typically do not cover wildfires, so discussing options with an insurance agent is essential. Planning for recovery, including relying on insurance, savings, and other resources, is vital if evacuation becomes necessary.
Oregon’s three-level evacuation system—“Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!”—is designed to keep residents informed and safe. It is crucial to heed these warnings and not return to evacuated areas until officials declare them safe.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
