Umatilla County Fire District #1 set another monthly record with a total of 529 calls for the month of June. For the fiscal year of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, the district ran a record 5,372 calls for service. On Sunday, July 4, crews were involved in 27 calls with seven of them fire responses.
Several calls on the July 4th were fire calls with some being started with fireworks. With the hot temperatures, dry fuels, low relative humidity, and windy conditions, the chance of wildfires increases.
The district is asking residents to be careful this summer. Some tips for protecting your home:
- Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained
- Keep natural grasses mowed down around your property
- Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of your house
- If you have trees, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground
- Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches, and decks. This prevents embers from igniting your home
- Inspect shingles or roof tiles. Replace or repair those that are loose or missing to prevent ember penetration
Learn more about reducing your home’s risk from wildfire damage at www.firewise.org.
