Bend, OR – As May ushers in Wildfire Awareness Month, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on residents to take immediate action to safeguard their homes and communities. With last year’s devastating wildfire season still fresh in memory—when 1.9 million acres of land were scorched—officials are warning that the risk remains high for another challenging fire season in 2025. However, experts emphasize that simple, proactive steps can significantly reduce the risks.
In 2024, Oregon experienced one of its most destructive wildfire seasons in history. Homes were destroyed, communities were tested, and lives were changed forever. Yet, amid the destruction, there were stories of resilience. Homes that were built with defensible space around them, a fire safety measure designed to create a buffer between homes and the surrounding landscape, were able to withstand the flames.
State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple, speaking about the ongoing efforts to bolster fire safety in the state, noted the importance of individual action in mitigating fire risk. “For the last several years, we’ve been proactively working to boost staffing at local fire agencies, modernize response equipment, and invest in wildfire resiliency projects across the state,” she said. “But we can’t do it alone. We need every Oregonian to rise to this challenge. Creating defensible space around your home is one of the most effective ways to protect your property and your community.”
Simple Steps to Defensible Space
While it may seem overwhelming, the steps to creating defensible space around a home are straightforward and effective. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office urges homeowners to begin with small changes that can have a big impact.
One key recommendation is to space and prune trees to prevent fire from climbing into the canopies, which can rapidly spread flames across a property. Additionally, the Fire Marshal encourages homeowners to remove leaves, pine needles, bark mulch, and other debris from within 100 feet of structures—or up to the property line, if possible.
Cleaning roofs and gutters of flammable debris is another critical step in reducing wildfire risk. Homeowners are also urged to move combustible materials, such as mulch and firewood, away from the house and keep plants trimmed and free of dead material, particularly near the home’s foundation.
It’s also important to avoid planting directly under eaves. A buffer of at least five feet is recommended to ensure there is enough clearance between the plants and the structure of the home.
Disposal and Safety Considerations
While cleaning up yards and properties, homeowners are encouraged to be mindful of how they dispose of debris. Options like chipping, composting, or recycling are encouraged. If burning is necessary, it is crucial to follow local regulations and rules. Last year, debris burns that got out of control were the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office emphasizes the need for preparation, awareness, and safety this season. “This May, we’re calling on every Oregonian to get ready, stay aware, and believe in fire safety,” Ruiz-Temple said. “Together, we can reduce wildfire risks and protect what matters most.”
Taking Action Together
As Oregon faces the likelihood of another intense wildfire season, it is clear that preparation and collective responsibility are key to reducing the impacts of future fires. By creating defensible space around homes, following local fire safety regulations, and staying vigilant, Oregonians can help protect their homes, families, and communities from the threat of wildfire.
For a detailed guide on how to create defensible space, visit www.oregondefensiblespace.org.
The time to act is now—before the heat of summer sets in and fire risks rise once again.
