Wildfire Information

Cars on road, leaving area burning behind them

Currently there are no active wildfires in Polk County that have resulted in evacuations. At this time we recommend being ready and watching for updates from local news and other sources.  Please consider signing up for Marion Polk Alerts, our free countywide mass notification system.  https://member.everbridge.net/892807736721950/login

 

Evacuation Levels

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Level 1: BE READY for potential evacuation. You should be aware of the danger that exists in the area, monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movements of persons with special needs, mobile property and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.

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Level 2: BE SET to evacuate. You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice. This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntary relocate to a shelter or with family and friends outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items, but doing so is at their own risk. This may be the only notice you receive. Emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate. Area media services will be asked to broadcast periodic updates.

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Level 3: GO! Evacuate now! Leave immediately! Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this advisement, you must understand that emergency services may not be available to assist you further. DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home. This will be the last notice you receive.

 

 

Make a Go-Kit

Assemble a go-kit of essential supplies for your health, safety and identification. Visit Ready.gov or American Red Cross for recommended emergency kit items. Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each member of the family. 

Pack the Six P's for evacuation: 

  1. People and pets (food, water, hygiene, sanitation, clothing and comfort items).
  2. Prescriptions (medications, eyeglasses and medical devices).
  3. Phones, personal computers, hard drives or disks, and chargers.
  4. “Plastic” (ATM debit and credit cards) and cash.
  5. Papers and important documents (photo identification, birth certificates, social security cards, passports, visas, insurance policy, mortgage deed or rental agreement, medical records, banking or financial records).
  6. Pictures and other irreplaceable memorabilia.

Prepare Kids

Help kids and teens in your household learn how to be prepared, not scared, in the event of a wildfire. Talk to children about evacuation plans and involve them in preparing their own emergency go-kit. Practice your emergency plan with the whole family so they will know what to do when disaster strikes.

Seniors and People with Disabilities

People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for emergencies and disasters. Plan what to do and who to contact, especially if you need help from others to evacuate. Create a support network of people who can help you during an emergency. Make plans for how you will communicate, any equipment needed, transportation and service animal considerations.

Pets and Animals

Have an evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock. Prepare a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate. Pack food, water, leashes, medication, identification, bedding, vaccination or medical records. Plan for transportation of large animals and identify safe shelter options. Visit Oregon Department of Agriculture for shelter options and other resources.

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