Did you know that 70% of wildfires are started by humans?
While wildfire is a natural part of our ecosystem, dry summer weather combined with potential human-caused sparks increases the risk of wildfire in our community. Work with us to help keep wildfire out of your backyard.
Reducing brush and dead wood is an important first step to creating a defensible space. Near a home, this buffer zone will ideally extend 100 feet from the house in the wildland. The Eugene Springfield Fire Department and Parks and Open Space have partnered with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on a major effort to reduce the risk of fire in Ridgeline natural areas and West Eugene. We are removing dense vegetation in several locations, and continuing ecological burns by trained City and BLM fire staff to improve wildfire buffer zones.
Create a defensible space around your home by clearing away brush and using fire-resistant landscaping. Assemble emergency supplies and belongings in a safe place. Plan escape routes and make sure all those in your home know the plan.
Pack your emergency items. Stay aware of the latest fire information from local media and the Eugene-Springfield Fire Department.
Go: Follow your fire action plan. Get yourself and your family to safety.
Be aware and follow regulations in areas where smoking, use of fireworks and recreational fires are prohibited. Always use caution when driving near vegetation.
Zones where homes and other structures meet wildlands are termed the wildland-urban interface (WUI). The WUI in Oregon has grown rapidly. As communities continue to expand into wildland areas, and the number of Oregon homes and businesses in the path of potential wildfires continues to escalate. Adjacent recreation and scenic areas, wildlife habitat and community watersheds may also be at risk.