Oregon Incident Team Returning From Hurricane Helene Mission

Salem, Oregon- The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) incident management team that deployed to Yancey County, North Carolina, in mid-October to aid Hurricane Helene recovery efforts is returning home. The team’s departure will be part of a structured transition designed to ensure continuous support for North Carolina’s ongoing recovery operations.

Oregon Incident Commander Lance Lighty and Plans Section Chief Bill Boos will lead the incoming OSFM team, replacing the outgoing personnel to maintain consistency and seamless leadership. Lighty is expected to take command from current Incident Commander Ian Yocum, who has overseen the team’s work during their initial deployment period.

The transition will begin immediately, with Lighty and Boos traveling on Tuesday to join the current team. After a day of shadowing, the incoming leaders will assume command, marking the next phase of OSFM’s involvement in supporting North Carolina’s recovery process.

“Our team is honored to contribute to the community’s continued recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “The commitment and expertise of our incident management teams reflect Oregon’s dedication to supporting others in times of need.”

The OSFM has three all-hazard incident management teams, typically deployed to assist communities affected by wildfires. The team’s deployment to North Carolina was made possible through the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This compact enables states to provide personnel, equipment, and supplies to support other states’ emergency response and recovery efforts during governor-declared disasters.

OSFM’s work in North Carolina is part of a broader collaboration between states, underscoring the importance of mutual aid in times of crisis. Through EMAC, Oregon has been able to extend its resources to assist communities outside its borders, reinforcing its commitment to nationwide emergency preparedness and recovery.