DFPA Urges Wildfire Prevention As May Marks National Wildfire Awareness Month

ROSEBURG, Ore. — The Douglas Forest Protective Association is urging residents to prepare early and take steps to prevent wildfires as May begins National Wildfire Awareness Month.

DFPA said conditions in the Douglas District are already pointing toward the possibility of an early and active fire season. The agency cited record-breaking warm winter temperatures, ongoing drought, and little to no snowpack as factors that have left fuels dry and more likely to ignite.

While those environmental conditions are outside local control, DFPA said most wildfires are not.

According to the agency, 80% of wildfires in the Douglas District in 2025 were human-caused. Those fires burned 312 acres. DFPA said that number was down from 2024, but still shows that many fires can be prevented.

Residents are encouraged to use the month of May to prepare their homes and properties before fire season intensifies. DFPA recommends creating and maintaining defensible space, clearing dry vegetation, removing debris from roofs and gutters, and keeping flammable materials away from homes and other structures.

The agency also said vehicle maintenance is important, noting that vehicle fires account for the largest share of human-caused fires in the district. Drivers towing trailers are reminded not to drag chains, which can create sparks and start roadside fires.

DFPA also reminded the public to know the rules before working outdoors, recreating, or starting any activity that could create heat or sparks.

The 2026 Public Use Restrictions on lands protected by DFPA include:

• No debris burning, fireworks, or tracer ammunition at any time
• Campfires allowed only in designated sites
• Motor vehicles restricted to improved roads
• Equipment use and mowing limited by fire danger levels and time of day

Outside of fire season, residents who burn yard debris are urged to use extreme caution. DFPA said escaped debris burns remain among the leading causes of fires outside fire season.

People should avoid burning during warm or windy conditions and check with their local fire department before burning. DFPA also recommends safer alternatives when possible, including composting, chipping, or recycling.

For residents who do burn, DFPA recommends the following safety practices:

• Burn only natural vegetation, never garbage, plastics, or hazardous materials
• Keep burn piles small and manageable
• Clear the area around the pile down to mineral soil
• Keep a shovel and charged water source nearby
• Stay with the fire until it is completely out

Residents who previously burned debris piles should also check them again to make sure they are fully extinguished. DFPA said old piles can continue to smolder and reignite on warm, windy days.

If a burn escapes, residents should call 911 immediately. DFPA said property owners may be held responsible for suppression costs and damages, which can range from hundreds to millions of dollars.

DFPA is encouraging residents to stay informed, speak up, and do their part to prevent wildfires this season.

“One spark can change everything. Don’t be the cause,” the agency said.

Full 2026 restrictions and fire season updates are available at dfpa.net.