July 3, 2025 3:50 a.m.

As of this week, all Oregon Department of Forestry districts are in fire season.

An ODF release said this means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where residents live or plan to visit or recreate.

ODF Fire Protection Division Chief Michael Curran said, “We have already experienced several large fires in the state this year and anticipate fire behavior to be progressively more volatile”. Curran said, “Right now is the time to practice fire prevention and preparedness”.

As the Fourth of July and the holiday weekend approaches, the release said residents should remember that forests and fireworks do not mix. Private use of fireworks is not allowed on forest land, which includes all private lands protected by ODF and all other state and federal forest lands in Oregon.

To brush up on wildfire prevention knowledge ODF tips include:

*Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds. Make sure fires are cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving a site

*Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. Those who burned debris in the spring should check their burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to heat

*Don’t park vehicles or idle them over dried grass

*Don’t drag towing chains

*Check local restrictions and fire danger levels

For more information on how to prevent wildfires, go to: www.keeporegongreen.org