There are multiple ways we all prepare for the fire season. It could depend on where we live, what organization we work for, or if we have experience with fire in the past, etc. Many of us recognize the need to prepare for the upcoming wildland fire season. But this year that preparation looks different given the current status of COVID 19 and it impacts on people being able to accomplish preparedness work.
So how do residents prepare for fire season when they can’t burn their yard debris because of air quality or plan a Firewise cleanup day while they are complying with social distancing. Here are a few ideas for local residents to try given the current normal we are all adjusting to.
- Participate in your local FireFree event. There are a variety of events in Central Oregon designed for residents to recycle their yard debris for FREE. A critical part of fire preparedness starts at home in your yard. Focus on the little things like clearing your gutters, clearing yard debris or flammable plants within 5 feet of your home, and making sure the first 3o feet around your home is lean and green.
- Help a neighbor in need. Plan outdoor projects for a neighbor or family member who may not be able to do them on their own. Many projects can be done while maintaining a safe distance. Keep it simple, like raking, cleaning gutters, pruning around an address sign, mowing fine fuels (grass and weeds), or moving firewood off a porch. This will limit the interaction needed with the resident while still making the project a success. Don’t gather the whole neighborhood to help. Instead, have volunteers adopt different neighbors, or assign tasks and schedule them so they don’t overlap.
- Set up a virtual coffee meet up or Firewise topic. Ask a fire professional, a landscaper, or a resident that would like to share their story. This can be a great way to share much-needed education and maintain connections while everyone can join in safely and comfortably from their own home.
- Virtual contest. Got some great work happening in your neighborhood already? How about a virtual contest so your neighbors can show off their hard work? Setting up an email newsletter featuring local neighbor’s yards or a virtual tour can help others get ideas.
- Host a Mow or Work in. Set a time and date for everyone to work together in the comfort of their own yard. Residents can be working on their defensible space from the safety of their own yard. The added benefit is that the work is more fun because residents aren’t doing it alone.
- See what can be done around your home. Starting at home can be the best place to start. This is a great time to not only work on your defensible space but preparing for evacuation. Now is the time to ensure you are signed up for emergency alerts, to make a plan with your family, and to make sure that your evacuation kit is ready for fire season.
Check out this guide from our partners Fire Adapted Colorado for some more ideas.
Working together looks different this year but our progress does not need to stop. Preparing for fire season is the best way everyone can play their part in living in Central Oregon safely.
