5/2/2023 10:45 a.m. 

May is Wildfire Awareness Month and state fire officials are recommending homeowners create defensible space around their homes now to have protection in place before the wildfire season officially arrives.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said in a statement released Monday that residents can take some simple steps to help prevent fire danger to their homes and buildings this summer.

These include clearing roofs and gutters of leaves, needles and debris, move all flammable materials 100 feet away from building exteriors, tall plants should be kept a minimum of five feet away from eaves and overhangs, and firewood piles should be kept at least 30 feet from any buildings.

Ruiz-Temple said trying to do everything at once can seem daunting, so instead just “Pick a project to complete this weekend. Maybe it is making sure your gutters are clear. Next weekend, limb your trees to ensure flames can’t reach the lower branches. Simple steps over time can culminate into added protection against a wildfire.”

For more wildfire prevention tips and ways to fire-proof your home and property, click here.