Oregon Activates Emergency Coordination Center As Wildfire Conditions Intensify

SALEM, Ore. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Coordination Center at Level 3 Friday morning as hot, dry and windy conditions increase wildfire danger across the state.

The Level 3, or “Regional Response,” activation began at 8 a.m. July 17 and will operate in a hybrid format. Representatives from key state agencies will staff the center virtually, allowing agencies to share information, coordinate resources and provide assistance to communities affected by wildfires.

State officials said the activation does not mean the entire state is under an immediate emergency. Instead, it allows Oregon agencies to increase coordination as existing fires, evacuation notices and hazardous weather conditions place additional pressure on local response resources.

Fire Danger Increasing Across Oregon

Hot and dry weather, combined with increasing winds, is creating elevated fire danger in several regions of Oregon.

Some areas are already under Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches, and additional alerts could be issued as conditions change. Officials are especially concerned about rapid fire growth, wind-driven embers, smoke-related visibility problems and the possibility of local firefighting resources becoming strained.

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is urging residents to closely follow information from county emergency managers, sheriff’s offices, fire agencies and federal land managers.

Residents Urged To Reduce Wildfire Risk

People across Oregon are being asked to avoid activities that could accidentally start a fire.

Recommended precautions include:

• Avoid using machinery or equipment that could create sparks.
• Do not park vehicles on dry grass or vegetation.
• Follow all local fire restrictions and closures.
• Create and maintain defensible space around homes and buildings.
• Secure loose outdoor items that could be carried by strong winds.
• Watch for smoke that could affect health or roadway visibility.
• Immediately report smoke or fire by calling 911.

Prepare Go-Bags Before An Evacuation

Evacuations are already underway in several Oregon communities, highlighting the importance of preparing before an emergency reaches the neighborhood.

Officials recommend creating an easy-to-carry go-bag for every person and animal in the household. Bags should contain essential medications, identification, important documents, clothing, food, water and other supplies that may be needed during an evacuation.

Preparing those items in advance can prevent a rushed and potentially dangerous search for belongings when an evacuation order is issued.

Know The Three Evacuation Levels

Oregon uses three evacuation levels:

• Level 1, Be Ready: Prepare for the possibility of evacuation and monitor conditions.
• Level 2, Be Set: Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
• Level 3, Go Now: Leave immediately. Danger is imminent, and it may no longer be safe to remain in the area.

Residents should not wait for a Level 3 notice if they feel unsafe or need additional time to evacuate due to medical needs, animals or limited transportation.

Stay Informed

Residents are encouraged to register for local emergency notifications and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on their mobile devices.

Current information can also be found through:

• Local county emergency management offices and sheriff’s offices
• The Oregon State Fire Marshal
• Federal and state land management agencies
• Oregon’s wildfire information dashboard
• TripCheck or 511 for road conditions and closures
• Wildfire.oregon.gov for preparedness information and statewide resources

The State Emergency Coordination Center will continue supporting local and regional agencies as wildfire conditions develop across Oregon.