Fire Department Urges Preparedness Ahead of Red Flag Warning

September 8, 2022 - Corvallis Fire Department is increasing its staffing levels ahead of the anticipated high fire risk forecast for the community through the weekend. Fire Department officials are also encouraging community members to practice extreme fire safety and be on the lookout for fire activity. The National Weather Service (NWS) has declared a “Red Flag Warning” for all of the Willamette Valley, including Benton County, starting at 11 a.m. Friday, September 9 through 11 p.m. Saturday, September 10.

NWS states that "a strong area of low pressure will bring an increased chance for moderate to strong east wind with critically dry conditions beginning as early as late Thursday night in the Oregon Cascades and persisting well into Saturday.” The Oregon Department of Forestry's West Oregon District has also set the fire danger level at “extreme.” 

What this means for Corvallis:

• Be very cautious this weekend, avoid any activity that could create a fire. Simple things like not parking off pavement in grassy areas, as well as avoiding the use of a lawnmower or string trimmer, could prevent a significant fire.
• Stay hydrated, and watch out for your pets too.
• Corvallis Fire Department has increased staffing for the next few days to increase response capability. Partner agencies in the area are adopting similar plans. 
• There is a county-wide burn ban in place. No burning is allowed. Call 911 if you see any type of fire.
• Natural area and forest trails are open, with increased signage advising caution and reminding trail users to be on the lookout for fires.
• Smoke from fires elsewhere in Oregon is likely to arrive in the community on Friday. Limiting outdoor exposure, masks, and even goggles may be helpful to reduce limit smoke impacts. Air quality information is available on the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) website.
• Area power utilities may implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in Linn, Lincoln, and Marion counties. Power shutoffs are not planned for Benton County at this time.
• Cooling – Clean air/cooling centers are available at locations throughout Benton County.

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the Fire Department website.