Wildfire Prevention

Wildfires present a serious risk throughout Oregon, including Benton County, with the potential to affect homes, businesses, and natural landscapes. It is essential to proactively prevent and mitigate wildfires, thereby minimizing property damage, safeguarding natural habitats, and ensuring the safety of residents.

Benton County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)

The purpose of the Community Wildfire Protection Plan is to promote awareness of the countywide wild land fire hazard and propose workable solutions to reduce the wildfire risk. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan was originally adopted by the Board of Commissioners on June 16, 2009. The Board adopted an updated Community Wildfire Protection Plan on October 4, 2016. The latest revision was approved on February 21, 2023

Wildfire Protection Plan

Help Reduce Wildfire Risk and Damage

Wildfire season is typically during the dry summer months, but even in this area of plentiful rainfall, several weeks of warm and dry conditions significantly increase our risk of wildfire outside of those months. If you live near wild lands, whether forest, brush, or grasslands, your home may be at risk any time of the year.

Unfortunately, once a wildfire starts, firefighters may not have the time or resources to protect every home in its path. However, you can take action now to protect your home before a fire starts by creating defensible space.

1. Create a Defensible Space

A defensible space is an area around your home that has been cleared of potential wildfire fuels. Follow these steps to create one:

Clear Vegetation: Remove dead leaves, branches, and other combustible materials from your yard.
Maintain Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs to keep them from touching your house. Space plants to reduce fire spread.
Use Fire-Resistant Materials: Choose non-flammable or fire-resistant materials for roofing, siding, and decks.

2. Prepare Your Home

Clean Gutters: Regularly remove leaves and debris from gutters and roof valleys.
Store Firewood Safely: Keep firewood at least 30 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground.
Secure Propane Tanks: Ensure propane tanks are at least 30 feet away from structures and properly maintained.

3. Follow Local Regulations

Burning Restrictions: Adhere to local burning bans and guidelines. These are in place to prevent accidental fires.
Fire Safety Codes: Follow building codes that require fire-resistant materials and features.

4. Create an Emergency Plan

Develop a Plan: Create a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and communication methods.
Prepare a Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents.

5. Stay Informed

Monitor Conditions: Keep an eye on local fire conditions and alerts through county websites, news, and weather services.
Participate in Programs: Join community programs and workshops focused on wildfire prevention and safety.

6. Educate and Involve the Community

Spread Awareness: Share wildfire prevention tips with neighbors and encourage others to take preventative actions.
Volunteer: Get involved with local fire safety organizations and participate in community fire prevention events..

7. Report Hazards

Notify Authorities: Report any fire hazards or potential threats to local fire departments or county officials.

By taking these steps, we can work together to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect our homes, environment, and community. For more information visit [Fire Department Website].