In response to a continued forecast of triple-digit temperatures, extreme fire danger, and potential lightning strikes, five California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) strike teams are making their way to Oregon. The move comes as a proactive measure to bolster Oregon’s firefighting efforts amid escalating fire risks.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) initiated this collaboration by requesting assistance through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. The strike teams, well-versed in firefighting operations, will be stationed in the Willamette Valley, strategically positioned to swiftly respond to existing wildfires or any new fire outbreaks.
Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “With fires already raging on the west slope of the Cascades and the fire danger mounting by the hour, our agency has taken a preemptive step to reinforce the Oregon fire service.” She expressed gratitude for the established partnership between OSFM, CalOES, and the California fire service, highlighting their effective collaboration during times of crisis.
Currently, the OSFM has deployed 11 task forces to manage the Lookout Fire and the Bedrock Fire in Lane County. The deployment of additional resources from California will help alleviate the strain on local firefighting teams and enhance the capacity to combat multiple fronts.
As the threat of wildfires looms large over the next week, both Oregon residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant. The OSFM underscores the critical need for wildfire awareness and prevention measures to mitigate the risk of sparking further blazes.
About EMAC
The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) serves as a vital interstate mutual aid agreement, enabling states to pool resources during times of disaster. Designed to complement the federal disaster response system, EMAC offers a timely and cost-effective relief mechanism for states in need. This collaboration ensures that member states can provide assistance tailored to the specific requirements of jurisdictions grappling with the preservation of life, economy, and environment during challenging times.
Source: OSFM
