FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Pat Olsen
Executive Director, CCVOAD
Phone: 503-887-4913
Email: patolsen@ccvoad.org
CCVOAD.org
CCVOAD encourages residents to follow Oregon Emergency Management’s “Be 2 Weeks Ready” guidance, create defensible space, and harden homes ahead of fire season
PORTLAND, Ore., May 1, 2025 — With forecasts pointing to an above-average wildfire season across Oregon, Clackamas County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (CCVOAD), along with state emergency management and community partners, is urging residents to take action now to protect their families, homes, and neighborhoods.
Preparation is critical as hotter, drier conditions increase the likelihood of fast-moving and unpredictable wildfires. CCVOAD emphasizes three key steps: Oregon Emergency Management’s (OEM) “Be 2 Weeks Ready” supplies, reducing wildfire risk around homes by creating defensible space, and investing in home hardening measures.
“Wildfires can escalate quickly, leaving little time to prepare in the moment,” said Barb Edwards, Disaster Management Coordinator of CCVOAD. “Taking simple steps now can make a significant difference in safety, evacuation readiness, and even whether a home survives a fire.”
Be 2 Weeks Ready
Oregon Emergency Management recommends that all households “Be 2 Weeks Ready,” meaning they have enough essential supplies to be self-sufficient for at least 14 days. This includes food, water, medications, pet supplies, and important documents.
Residents should also:
- Build or update emergency kits for home and evacuation
- Make a family communication plan
- Sign up for local emergency alerts
- Know evacuation routes and levels
Being prepared for two weeks helps households manage not only wildfires, but also power outages, road closures, and disruptions to emergency services.
Create Defensible Space
Creating defensible space around homes can slow the spread of wildfire and give firefighters a safer area in which to work. Key actions include:
- Clearing dry grass, leaves, and debris within at least 30 feet of structures
- Spacing trees and shrubs to reduce fire spread
- Removing flammable materials from decks, roofs, and gutters
- Keeping lawns trimmed and well-maintained
Harden Your Home
Home hardening — using fire-resistant materials and reducing vulnerabilities — can significantly improve a structure’s chances of surviving a wildfire. Recommended actions include:
- Installing ember-resistant vents
- Using fire-resistant roofing and siding materials
- Replacing or repairing damaged shingles and siding
- Screening or enclosing decks and crawl spaces
“Embers can travel miles ahead of a wildfire and are one of the leading causes of home ignition,” Edwards said. “Small upgrades can go a long way in helping prevent those embers from igniting your home.”
A Shared Responsibility
Wildfire preparedness is a shared effort. When individuals take action, it strengthens the resilience of entire communities.
Residents are encouraged to connect with neighbors, support community preparedness efforts, and stay informed throughout the wildfire season.
For more information on how to prepare, visit www.ccvoad.org.
About CCVOAD
Clackamas County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (CCVOAD) coordinates a network of voluntary organizations to promote efficient service delivery for individuals and communities affected by disasters across the state of Oregon.
Website: https://ccvoad.org/