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News Release

Emergency Conflagration Act Invoked For Akawa Butte And Brewer Fires In Deschutes And Jefferson Counties - 07/18/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Saturday morning, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Akawa Butte and Brewer fires in Deschutes and Jefferson counties. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is assigning its Red Incident Management Team and several task forces to the fires to work alongside its wildland partners to protect nearby communities and critical infrastructure.

 

Hot, dry weather and strong, shifting winds created difficult firefighting conditions across Central Oregon Friday. The fires have grown significantly, threatening nearby communities. The Deschutes and Jefferson County sheriff’s offices have levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow their local sheriff’s office.

 

Conditions will continue to be hot and dry on Saturday. The wind will be light in the morning but is expected to increase in the afternoon. Fire managers expect challenging, wind-driven fire activity later in the day.

 

“The conditions we’re seeing across Oregon have challenged firefighters for the past week and the current forecast isn’t providing much relief,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “I’m urging every Oregonian to be wildfire aware and to sign up for their county’s emergency alerts. Know the evacuation levels and follow them if they are issued.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Red Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Team 2.

This is the fifth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is posting updates on incidents it has resources assigned to on osfminfo.org. Oregonians can sign up for emergency alerts at oralert.gov.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

Emergency Conflagration Act Invoked For Akawa Butte And Brewer Fires In Deschutes And Jefferson Counties - 07/18/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Saturday morning, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Akawa Butte and Brewer fires in Deschutes and Jefferson counties. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is assigning its Red Incident Management Team and several task forces to the fires to work alongside its wildland partners to protect nearby communities and critical infrastructure.

 

Hot, dry weather and strong, shifting winds created difficult firefighting conditions across Central Oregon Friday. The fires have grown significantly, threatening nearby communities. The Deschutes and Jefferson County sheriff’s offices have levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow their local sheriff’s office.

 

Conditions will continue to be hot and dry on Saturday. The wind will be light in the morning but is expected to increase in the afternoon. Fire managers expect challenging, wind-driven fire activity later in the day.

 

“The conditions we’re seeing across Oregon have challenged firefighters for the past week and the current forecast isn’t providing much relief,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “I’m urging every Oregonian to be wildfire aware and to sign up for their county’s emergency alerts. Know the evacuation levels and follow them if they are issued.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Red Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Team 2.

This is the fifth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is posting updates on incidents it has resources assigned to on osfminfo.org. Oregonians can sign up for emergency alerts at oralert.gov.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

Emergency Conflagration Act Invoked For Rowe Creek Complex In Wheeler County, State Fire Marshal Mobilizing Resources - 07/17/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Friday afternoon, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Rowe Creek Complex in Wheeler County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal has assigned its Green Incident Management team and four task forces from Clackamas and Lane counties and two from the state of Washington.

 

The complex is made up of the Camel Hump, Crosswhite, and Redrock fires. As of Friday morning, the three fires had burned 15,018 acres; the estimated acreage is likely much higher based on fire behavior Friday afternoon.

 

The Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office has levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices in place for communities near these fires. The agency is sharing evacuation information on their Facebook page and on their Genesys Protect dashboard.

 

On Thursday night, the Oregon State Fire Marshal assigned two structural task forces to Wheeler County through Immediate Response. These firefighters worked to protect homes and critical infrastructure. The region is seeing challenging fire conditions with tinder dry fuels and an unfavorable forecast with temperatures expected to climb into the upper 90s, and possibly triple digits. A Red Flag Warning is in place for parts of North Central Oregon through Friday night.

 

“The extreme fire conditions, the forecast, and these recent wildfires have challenged our firefighters,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We are using every tool at our disposal to protect homes and communities from these fires. I ask that every Oregonian pay close attention to these wildfires and if you are asked to evacuate to do so.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with a federal incident management team, Northwest Team 2, which has also been assigned to the complex.

 

This is the fourth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026. It is also the fourth conflagration since July 10, 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Emergency Conflagration Act Invoked For Rowe Creek Complex In Wheeler County, State Fire Marshal Mobilizing Resources - 07/17/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Friday afternoon, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Rowe Creek Complex in Wheeler County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal has assigned its Green Incident Management team and four task forces from Clackamas and Lane counties and two from the state of Washington.

 

The complex is made up of the Camel Hump, Crosswhite, and Redrock fires. As of Friday morning, the three fires had burned 15,018 acres; the estimated acreage is likely much higher based on fire behavior Friday afternoon.

 

The Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office has levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices in place for communities near these fires. The agency is sharing evacuation information on their Facebook page and on their Genesys Protect dashboard.

 

On Thursday night, the Oregon State Fire Marshal assigned two structural task forces to Wheeler County through Immediate Response. These firefighters worked to protect homes and critical infrastructure. The region is seeing challenging fire conditions with tinder dry fuels and an unfavorable forecast with temperatures expected to climb into the upper 90s, and possibly triple digits. A Red Flag Warning is in place for parts of North Central Oregon through Friday night.

 

“The extreme fire conditions, the forecast, and these recent wildfires have challenged our firefighters,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We are using every tool at our disposal to protect homes and communities from these fires. I ask that every Oregonian pay close attention to these wildfires and if you are asked to evacuate to do so.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with a federal incident management team, Northwest Team 2, which has also been assigned to the complex.

 

This is the fourth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026. It is also the fourth conflagration since July 10, 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Oregon Adds California & Washington Fire Service Resources As Wildfire Activity Strains Statewide Capacity - 07/17/26

SALEM, Ore. – With Oregon’s fire protection resources heavily committed to wildfires across the state, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is bringing in five task forces from California and two task forces from Washington to focus on protecting communities and critical infrastructure as the state faces extreme fire conditions.

 

Earlier this week thunderstorms moved through the region, dropping thousands of lightning strikes and sparking numerous wildfires. These additional firefighters and equipment will support fires the state fire marshal has resources assigned to and will be available for any emerging incidents.

 

The resources were mobilized through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact in coordination with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

 

“The Oregon fire service is doing extraordinary work across the state, but the number of active incidents is placing a significant demand on the system,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz‑Temple said. “Bringing in resources from other states is a common practice that supports the entire wildfire response system.”

 

The California resources will be assigned according to incident priorities and may support community defense, structure triage, protection of critical infrastructure, and other missions aligned with their qualifications. The task forces from Washington are working alongside Oregon crews in Wheeler County on the Rowe Creek Complex.

 

The Oregon Department of Forestry, tribal, and federal wildland agencies will continue managing wildland suppression operations within their respective jurisdictions. The Oregon State Fire Marshal resources, including those arriving from California and Washington, are focused on reinforcing local fire service capacity and community protection efforts.

 

“Oregon, California, and Washington have a long history of helping one another during emergencies,” Ruiz-Temple said. “Oregon firefighters supported California communities in 2025 during the Los Angeles wildfires, and we are grateful that our neighboring states are able to answer Oregon’s request for help.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has resources assigned to four conflagrations and one Immediate Response incident. For more information about the agency’s mobilizations and updates, visit https://osfminfo.org.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Oregon Adds California & Washington Fire Service Resources As Wildfire Activity Strains Statewide Capacity - 07/17/26

SALEM, Ore. – With Oregon’s fire protection resources heavily committed to wildfires across the state, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is bringing in five task forces from California and two task forces from Washington to focus on protecting communities and critical infrastructure as the state faces extreme fire conditions.

 

Earlier this week thunderstorms moved through the region, dropping thousands of lightning strikes and sparking numerous wildfires. These additional firefighters and equipment will support fires the state fire marshal has resources assigned to and will be available for any emerging incidents.

 

The resources were mobilized through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact in coordination with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

 

“The Oregon fire service is doing extraordinary work across the state, but the number of active incidents is placing a significant demand on the system,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz‑Temple said. “Bringing in resources from other states is a common practice that supports the entire wildfire response system.”

 

The California resources will be assigned according to incident priorities and may support community defense, structure triage, protection of critical infrastructure, and other missions aligned with their qualifications. The task forces from Washington are working alongside Oregon crews in Wheeler County on the Rowe Creek Complex.

 

The Oregon Department of Forestry, tribal, and federal wildland agencies will continue managing wildland suppression operations within their respective jurisdictions. The Oregon State Fire Marshal resources, including those arriving from California and Washington, are focused on reinforcing local fire service capacity and community protection efforts.

 

“Oregon, California, and Washington have a long history of helping one another during emergencies,” Ruiz-Temple said. “Oregon firefighters supported California communities in 2025 during the Los Angeles wildfires, and we are grateful that our neighboring states are able to answer Oregon’s request for help.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has resources assigned to four conflagrations and one Immediate Response incident. For more information about the agency’s mobilizations and updates, visit https://osfminfo.org.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Task Forces, Incident Management Team To Lower Dry Creek Fire In Umatilla County - 07/16/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Wednesday night, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Lower Dry Creek Fire in Umatilla County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal began mobilizing structural protection task forces and its Red Incident Management Team. Local firefighters have been fighting the fast-moving fire near Milton-Freewater and Weston since it was reported Wednesday afternoon.

 

The fire is estimated to be more than 5,000 acres and was being pushed by gusty winds from passing thunderstorms and extremely dry conditions. The fire has prompted levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices by the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office. Those seeking evacuation information can find updates on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

 

On Wednesday afternoon, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized two structural task forces and air resources through Immediate Response. Additional structural task forces are being mobilized to boost capacity and protect property and critical infrastructure.

 

“Wednesday was an extremely active day for firefighters across the state as hot, dry weather coupled with thunderstorms elevated wildfire risk,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The forecast is calling for continued thunderstorms and temperatures into the mid-90s for the coming week. I’m asking every Oregonian to be aware of the wildfire threat and take steps to prevent sparking any new wildfires.”

 

This is the third time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Task Forces, Incident Management Team To Lower Dry Creek Fire In Umatilla County - 07/16/26

SALEM, Ore. – On Wednesday night, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Lower Dry Creek Fire in Umatilla County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal began mobilizing structural protection task forces and its Red Incident Management Team. Local firefighters have been fighting the fast-moving fire near Milton-Freewater and Weston since it was reported Wednesday afternoon.

 

The fire is estimated to be more than 5,000 acres and was being pushed by gusty winds from passing thunderstorms and extremely dry conditions. The fire has prompted levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices by the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office. Those seeking evacuation information can find updates on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

 

On Wednesday afternoon, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized two structural task forces and air resources through Immediate Response. Additional structural task forces are being mobilized to boost capacity and protect property and critical infrastructure.

 

“Wednesday was an extremely active day for firefighters across the state as hot, dry weather coupled with thunderstorms elevated wildfire risk,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The forecast is calling for continued thunderstorms and temperatures into the mid-90s for the coming week. I’m asking every Oregonian to be aware of the wildfire threat and take steps to prevent sparking any new wildfires.”

 

This is the third time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Resources To Olive Butte Fire In Grant County - 07/11/26

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and four structural task forces to the Olive Butte Fire in Grant County. Saturday evening, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation notice for the town of Granite. The evacuation notices were issued due to rapidly changing conditions.

 

The state fire marshal is sending three structural protection task forces from Clackamas, Lane, and Washington counties Saturday evening, with more resources arriving Sunday. These resources will work to protect life and property near the fire.

 

“While our wildland partners focus on the perimeter of the fire itself, our resources will work to protect homes and critical infrastructure,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “This partnership is vital as we face what has been a very busy weekend for firefighters across the state.”

 

Those looking for evacuation information can follow the Grant County Emergency Management page or the Oregon Department of Emergency Management's RAPTOR Dashboard.

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with Northwest Team 12.

 

Saturday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire, allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the second time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office. 

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Resources To Olive Butte Fire In Grant County - 07/11/26

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and four structural task forces to the Olive Butte Fire in Grant County. Saturday evening, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation notice for the town of Granite. The evacuation notices were issued due to rapidly changing conditions.

 

The state fire marshal is sending three structural protection task forces from Clackamas, Lane, and Washington counties Saturday evening, with more resources arriving Sunday. These resources will work to protect life and property near the fire.

 

“While our wildland partners focus on the perimeter of the fire itself, our resources will work to protect homes and critical infrastructure,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “This partnership is vital as we face what has been a very busy weekend for firefighters across the state.”

 

Those looking for evacuation information can follow the Grant County Emergency Management page or the Oregon Department of Emergency Management's RAPTOR Dashboard.

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with Northwest Team 12.

 

Saturday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire, allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the second time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office. 

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Resources To Jackson County - 07/11/26

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing four structural task forces and its Blue Incident Management Team to the fast-moving East Evans Creek Road fire in Jackson County. The fire which sparked Friday quickly grew to over 1,500 acres and is threatening nearby homes and several communities.

 

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, & 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow the local sheriff’s office.

 

The state fire marshal task forces from Lincoln, Linn, Marion and the south coast (Coos, Curry, Lane, and Douglas counties) will join a task force from Klamath County and strike team from Douglas County mobilized Friday evening through Immediate Response to support local structural resources.

 

“This fire is a reminder how quickly things can change with the dry conditions we have across the state,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Chief Deputy Travis Medema said. “We have a long way to go this fire season, and I ask every Oregonian to do their part to prevent wildfires.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Blue Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1.

 

Friday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize additional resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the first time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Resources To Jackson County - 07/11/26

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing four structural task forces and its Blue Incident Management Team to the fast-moving East Evans Creek Road fire in Jackson County. The fire which sparked Friday quickly grew to over 1,500 acres and is threatening nearby homes and several communities.

 

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, & 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow the local sheriff’s office.

 

The state fire marshal task forces from Lincoln, Linn, Marion and the south coast (Coos, Curry, Lane, and Douglas counties) will join a task force from Klamath County and strike team from Douglas County mobilized Friday evening through Immediate Response to support local structural resources.

 

“This fire is a reminder how quickly things can change with the dry conditions we have across the state,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Chief Deputy Travis Medema said. “We have a long way to go this fire season, and I ask every Oregonian to do their part to prevent wildfires.”

 

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Blue Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1.

 

Friday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize additional resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the first time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

 

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

Oregon Marks Five Years Of Fire Adapted Oregon And Response Ready Oregon (Photo) - 06/29/26

SALEM, ORE. - Five years after Senate Bill 762, Oregon is celebrating the progress and impact of Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon. These statewide programs, created by the Department of the State Fire Marshal, built a stronger foundation for wildfire risk reduction and response at a time when the state’s wildfire exposure continues to intensify.

 

Fire Adapted Oregon was created to help communities understand and reduce wildfire risk through education, defensible space, home hardening, grants, partnerships, and regional support. Over the past five years, the program trained 502 defensible space assessors from 94 agencies, completing 6,539 assessments across the state. Fire Adapted Oregon has advanced guidance on defensible space, including the importance of the first five feet around homes and structures, strengthened partnerships like the collaboration with the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, and expanded statewide mitigation and home hardening investments through grants. Regional delivery across nine districts ensures support reaches communities where it is needed most and in a way that best reflects each community’s needs.

 

Response Ready Oregon was established to modernize and expand the fire service’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when wildfires ignite. The Engine Program delivered 76 new engines and tactical water tenders to local fire agencies, supported seasonal staffing, expanded the immediate response and pre‑positioning programs, and strengthened the three all-hazard incident management teams within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. Regional mobilization coordinators connect local chiefs to resources and support. These investments help firefighters stop fires while they are small, reducing loss and protecting communities.

 

Oregon’s wildfire exposure has increased significantly. The Rowena Fire in 2025 resulted in the loss of 56 homes, a trend consistent with the western U.S. The West has experienced a 246% increase in homes and structures destroyed by wildfire between 1999–2009 and 2010–2020, according to a study published in PNAS Nexus. Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon provide coordinated statewide systems that help communities prepare for these changing conditions and give fire agencies the tools they need to respond quickly and safely.

 

Over the next five years, Fire Adapted Oregon will strengthen home hardening grant programs, advance data collection and integration, and continue building strategies that support vulnerable communities and structure loss reduction. Response Ready Oregon will continue investments in staffing grants, immediate response, and pre‑positioning. Long-term and stable funding will be essential as wildfire seasons intensify. Planned improvements include modernizing the fire defense board system, enhancing technology and communications systems, developing emerging tools for situational awareness, and building additional agreements with other states to support surge capacity.

 

About the Department of the State Fire Marshal 

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023. 

Attached Media Files: engineprogram.jpg,

Oregon Marks Five Years Of Fire Adapted Oregon And Response Ready Oregon (Photo) - 06/29/26

SALEM, ORE. - Five years after Senate Bill 762, Oregon is celebrating the progress and impact of Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon. These statewide programs, created by the Department of the State Fire Marshal, built a stronger foundation for wildfire risk reduction and response at a time when the state’s wildfire exposure continues to intensify.

 

Fire Adapted Oregon was created to help communities understand and reduce wildfire risk through education, defensible space, home hardening, grants, partnerships, and regional support. Over the past five years, the program trained 502 defensible space assessors from 94 agencies, completing 6,539 assessments across the state. Fire Adapted Oregon has advanced guidance on defensible space, including the importance of the first five feet around homes and structures, strengthened partnerships like the collaboration with the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, and expanded statewide mitigation and home hardening investments through grants. Regional delivery across nine districts ensures support reaches communities where it is needed most and in a way that best reflects each community’s needs.

 

Response Ready Oregon was established to modernize and expand the fire service’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when wildfires ignite. The Engine Program delivered 76 new engines and tactical water tenders to local fire agencies, supported seasonal staffing, expanded the immediate response and pre‑positioning programs, and strengthened the three all-hazard incident management teams within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. Regional mobilization coordinators connect local chiefs to resources and support. These investments help firefighters stop fires while they are small, reducing loss and protecting communities.

 

Oregon’s wildfire exposure has increased significantly. The Rowena Fire in 2025 resulted in the loss of 56 homes, a trend consistent with the western U.S. The West has experienced a 246% increase in homes and structures destroyed by wildfire between 1999–2009 and 2010–2020, according to a study published in PNAS Nexus. Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon provide coordinated statewide systems that help communities prepare for these changing conditions and give fire agencies the tools they need to respond quickly and safely.

 

Over the next five years, Fire Adapted Oregon will strengthen home hardening grant programs, advance data collection and integration, and continue building strategies that support vulnerable communities and structure loss reduction. Response Ready Oregon will continue investments in staffing grants, immediate response, and pre‑positioning. Long-term and stable funding will be essential as wildfire seasons intensify. Planned improvements include modernizing the fire defense board system, enhancing technology and communications systems, developing emerging tools for situational awareness, and building additional agreements with other states to support surge capacity.

 

About the Department of the State Fire Marshal 

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023. 

Attached Media Files: engineprogram.jpg,

Oregon State Fire Marshal Urges Oregonians To Check Fireworks Restrictions, Keep Celebrations Legal And Safe (Photo) - 06/23/26

SALEM, Ore. – With fireworks sales beginning Today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2026 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks, whether celebrating at home or traveling.

 

“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

 

Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

 

Fireworks safety and legal reminders

Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

  • Public lands and parks
  • National parks and forests
  • Bureau of Land Management lands
  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
  • Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
  • Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

  • Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
  • Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
  • Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
  • Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.

Illegal fireworks and consequences

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

 

Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

 

Learn more

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.

For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

 

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023.

Attached Media Files: 260623-NST-1065.jpg,

Oregon State Fire Marshal Urges Oregonians To Check Fireworks Restrictions, Keep Celebrations Legal And Safe (Photo) - 06/23/26

SALEM, Ore. – With fireworks sales beginning Today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2026 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks, whether celebrating at home or traveling.

 

“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

 

Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

 

Fireworks safety and legal reminders

Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

  • Public lands and parks
  • National parks and forests
  • Bureau of Land Management lands
  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
  • Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
  • Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

  • Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
  • Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
  • Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
  • Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.

Illegal fireworks and consequences

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

 

Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

 

Learn more

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.

For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

 

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023.

Attached Media Files: 260623-NST-1065.jpg,

MEDIA ADVISORY: Oregon State Fire Marshal Fireworks Safety Demonstration And Press Event - 06/22/26

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES, NOT FOR BROADCAST
 
With fireworks sales beginning June 23, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is hosting a press event to highlight fireworks safety, legal use, and the risk of wildfire and injury during the Fourth of July holiday. The event will include short remarks from the OSFM and partner agencies followed by a live fireworks demonstration explaining safe and unsafe use.
 
WHEN:
Tuesday, June 23, 10 a.m.
 
WHERE:
Oregon State Fire Marshal Headquarters, 3991 Fairview Industrial Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302
 
WHO:
• Travis Medema, Chief Deputy, Oregon State Fire Marshal
• Mark Johnston, Assistant Chief Deputy, Oregon State Fire Marshal
 
Interview Opportunities
Following the demonstration, representatives from the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Oregon Department of Forestry, and Oregon State Parks will be available for one-on-one interviews. 
 
WHY:
With fire season underway and the potential for an above average season, it’s more important than ever to follow fireworks laws and practice safe behavior. This event will offer visuals and interviews for media covering fireworks safety.
 
VISUALS:
• Live demonstration explaining the difference between safe and unsafe fireworks use
• Fire officials and subject matter experts available for interview

MEDIA ADVISORY: Oregon State Fire Marshal Fireworks Safety Demonstration And Press Event - 06/22/26

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES, NOT FOR BROADCAST
 
With fireworks sales beginning June 23, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is hosting a press event to highlight fireworks safety, legal use, and the risk of wildfire and injury during the Fourth of July holiday. The event will include short remarks from the OSFM and partner agencies followed by a live fireworks demonstration explaining safe and unsafe use.
 
WHEN:
Tuesday, June 23, 10 a.m.
 
WHERE:
Oregon State Fire Marshal Headquarters, 3991 Fairview Industrial Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302
 
WHO:
• Travis Medema, Chief Deputy, Oregon State Fire Marshal
• Mark Johnston, Assistant Chief Deputy, Oregon State Fire Marshal
 
Interview Opportunities
Following the demonstration, representatives from the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Oregon Department of Forestry, and Oregon State Parks will be available for one-on-one interviews. 
 
WHY:
With fire season underway and the potential for an above average season, it’s more important than ever to follow fireworks laws and practice safe behavior. This event will offer visuals and interviews for media covering fireworks safety.
 
VISUALS:
• Live demonstration explaining the difference between safe and unsafe fireworks use
• Fire officials and subject matter experts available for interview