Thursday, September 20, 2018

REGULATED USE ENDS IN THE NORTHWEST OREGON AREA

The Oregon Department of Forestry announces that effective at 01:00am on Thursday, September 20, 2018, the Regulated Use Closure will be terminated in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protection Association, which includes the Forest Grove, Tillamook and Astoria Districts.


When Regulated Use is officially terminated, the public no longer has fire restrictions on smoking, campfires, chainsaws and motorized vehicle use.  However, everyone is encouraged to think about fire prevention all year round.  For example, do not discard burning materials, such as cigarettes, and always ensure campfires are cold before leaving.


FIRE SEASON REMAINS IN EFFECT!  For forest operators, they must have required fire equipment at the site of their operation and are reminded to inspect their fire equipment to ensure it is ready and can pass inspection.  Forest operators must also provide fire watch on each operation after equipment is shut down at the end of operations each day.  Operations can refer to the fire watch waiver in effect for IFPL fire watch requirements.  Fire season rules also prohibit smoking while in or traveling through any "operation area," and prohibits the use of fuse and caps for blasting on forest land.  Zones NW-1, NW-2, and NW-3 IFPL levels and changes may be obtained by calling your local ODF office or at our website:


http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx


For the general public, burning permits are required for open pile burning and burn barrels when allowed.  For residents that live within a city fire department district or rural fire protection district,  contact their local fire department for burning and burn permit requirements. 


It is also a good reminder that fire can be a hazard at any time of year if steps are not taken to use fire safely.  Whenever you use fire, whether for debris burning or enjoying a campfire, use these steps to prevent your fire from turning into the next wildfire. 
  • Never leave your fire unattended.
  • When burning debris, always have a hose and shovel at the fire to prevent the fire from spreading.
  • Check with your local fire protection agency prior to burning.  (Most rural fire protection districts require a burn permit year round).
  • If camping, ensure your campfire is in a designated area.
  • Always make sure your campfire is out cold before leaving.
  • On the beach, keep your campfire far from beach grass and drift wood piles.