September 4, 2020 3:20 a.m.
Officials with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and other agencies are encouraging everyone to follow the same safety practices of past years, plus a few new ones due to COVID-19.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Director Lisa Sumption said the last six months have been tough for everyone and the outdoors have become a favorite way to relieve some of the stress and anxiety. Sumption expects this weekend to continue the trend of more visitors escaping to state parks and public lands statewide.
The OPRD release said the predicted hot and dry weather makes fire safety a top priority for Oregon State Parks as well as state and local fire agencies. The Oregon Department of Forestry has reported 87 recreation-related fires this season that have burned approximately 366 acres.
ODF Fire Protection Chief Doug Grafe said “Most wildfires are human-caused and September is a time when we often see fire starts because of human activity”. Grafe said they are asking people to follow local public use restrictions and exercise common sense when spending time outdoors.
The release said many state parks and south coast beaches have campfire and beach restrictions. Residents should check: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=285 for more information.
While end-of-summer weather can be perfect for swimming and other water sports, the release said cold water and low water levels reveal in-water hazards in many rivers. Find out about any reported obstructions and the recommended actions for safe navigation by going to: https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/Pages/Reported-Obstructions-Alerts.aspx
Oregon Marine Board Public Information Officer Ashley Massey said there have been 22 recreational boating fatalities his season, with one common denominator – life jackets not being worn. Massey said “Accidents happen too quickly to put one on in an emergency”. She said people should find a life jacket that is Coast Guard approved and wear it.
OPRD Associate Director Chris Havel said the COVID-19 pandemic and limited staff and resources adds more safety reminders for outdoor visits. Havel said people should take their own trash home with them. He said face coverings are required in restrooms and when a minimum 6-foot distance can’t be maintained at trailheads, trails and other crowded areas. Go to: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/ for more information.