July 13, 2022 10:40 a.m.

The Oregon Building Codes Division is partnering with eight counties, including Douglas, on a grant program to help owners of homes and businesses rebuild after the 2020 Oregon wildfires.

A release from the Department of Consumer and Business Services said people who own a home or business that was damaged or destroyed by the 2020 wildfires can receive money for using more fire-resistant methods and materials when they rebuild. Those who have already rebuilt also qualify.

The release said fire hardening is an important tool to make homes more resistant to fire. Fire hardening includes actions that can be taken to make a home or business more resistant to damage from a wildfire, such as using materials for siding and roofing that resist ignition during a wildfire, installing fire-resistant windows to protect openings, or using attic ventilation devices to help reduce ember intrusion.

Other counties involved in the program are Clackamas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn and Marion. To learn more and apply, go to: https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/Pages/firehardening.aspx