After one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in Oregon history, state officials are urging residents to prepare now as May marks Wildfire Awareness Month.
Nearly 1.9 million acres burned in 2024, but the Oregon State Fire Marshal says homes with defensible space often survived.
In a release this week, State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple called on Oregonians to take simple steps—like clearing debris, pruning trees, and moving flammable materials away from homes—to reduce wildfire risk.
“We need every Oregonian to rise to this challenge,” Ruiz-Temple said. "Creating defensible space around your home is one of the most effective ways to protect your property and your community.”
More tips and resources are available at oregondefensiblespace.org and preventwildfires.oregon.gov.