Governor Issues State of Emergency Due to Threat of Forest Fires

Over the past few days, thunderstorms have descended upon southwestern Oregon and the Klamath Falls area, triggering dozens of lightning-caused fires.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Due to the critical forest fire danger situation facing many parts of the state, Governor Ted Kulongoski has declared a state of emergency and authorized the use of three National Guard helicopters and aviation assets to help respond to the situation. “I want to ensure the safety of all Oregonians and communities - both urban and rural - throughout the state,” said Governor Kulongoski.

“As parts of Oregon experience record temperatures and extreme drought conditions, we need to make sure that communities have access to the best equipment. It is essential that the state responds in a concerted and coordinated response.” At 5:30 PM on Wednesday, the Governor verbally ordered the proclamation due to the looming threat of wildfire pursuant to ORS 401.055.

The order guarantees that effective, coordinated use of state resources will be available to the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry.

The declaration also allows use of National Guard personnel and equipment to prevent or alleviate damage from the fires, including the deployment of one Medevac helicopter to Pendleton.

Other Guard helicopters or aviation equipment will be available as needed while the order is invoked. The order remains in effect until the threat of forest fire is significantly relieved, the fire season ends or the Governor revokes the order. The extended forecast throughout parts of the state calls for severe drought conditions, above normal heat and below normal precipitation for the remainder of the summer.

Over the past few days, thunderstorms have descended upon southwestern Oregon and the Klamath Falls area, triggering dozens of lightning-caused fires. Earlier this week, the Governor invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Egley Complex Fires in Harney County.

While the threat of this fire has decreased, other fires have started or spread throughout the state. If wildfire is approaching your home:

1. Call 9-11 for help immediately.
2. Close all entrances, doors, windows and other openings to prevent sparks from entering your home.
3. Turn off residential fuel. If you have natural gas or butane, turn it off at the tank or meter.
4. Evacuate immediately.

“A coordinated and quick response to fighting wildfires not only protects Oregonians and property, it also decreases the amount of public resources needed to contain fires and keep all Oregonians out of harms way,” said the Governor. “We will do everything in our power to protect our communities.”