Wildfire Readiness

Stay informed through reliable sources:

• Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) Wildfire Mitigation for regional transmission wildfire prevention efforts and system safety work
• NOAA Weather Alerts for Red Flag warnings, fire weather updates, and air quality
• Ready.gov for emergency kits, evacuation planning, and home preparation
• Oregon Department of Forestry for fire restrictions, local updates, and prevention tool
• Oregon Ready, Set, Go! for preparedness resources and community support
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Wildfires Resource for health and safety guidance during wildfire events, including smoke exposure and cleanup recommendations

One of the best defenses against wildfire is defensible space, which is the buffer around your home that reduces how quickly fire can spread.

Defensible space zones

• 0 to 5 feet from structures:
  Remove dry leaves, needles, and flammable materials. This zone should stay clean and clear.
• 5 to 30 feet:
  Trim shrubs, clear dead plants, and keep grass short. Space vegetation so fire can’t climb into trees.
• 30 to 100 feet:
  Thin trees and remove dead or overcrowded growth. Keep lower branches trimmed up away from the ground.

Seasonal checklist

• Clean gutters, roofs, and decks regularly.
• Move firewood, propane tanks, and other combustibles away from buildings.
• Trim branches away from roofs and power lines.
• Maintain driveways and access routes for emergency crews.

These steps don’t just protect your property, they help firefighters protect your neighborhood.

Having supplies ready ahead of time helps you stay safe and prepared during a wildfire-related outage.

• Flashlights and extra batteries (avoid candles)
• Charged battery packs and phone cords
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Bottled water and non-perishable food
• First-aid supplies and needed medications
• Copies of important documents
• Fuel for vehicles and generators (stored safely)

A simple plan now can prevent real problems later. Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if the power goes out and conditions change quickly.

• Keep phones charged and vehicles fueled during fire season.
• Know how to open your garage door manually.
• Set a family communication plan and meeting place.
• If you use medical equipment, arrange backup power and notify your medical provider.