BEND, OR -- Two structural task forces will be pre-positioned in Central Oregon this weekend, due to Red Flag Warnings and predicted hot temperatures. The teams are from Lincoln and Polk counties. They have 26 firefighters, eight engines and two water tenders.
The task forces are not assigned to a specific incident, but are available for initial attack on any new fires. They will remain for 72 hours and could be extended for up to two weeks, if conditions warrant.
“With the immense wildfire activity we have seen so far this summer, we are taking this proactive step to prepare for yet another increased threat of new fire starts,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said in a statement. “We are moving into the heart of our typical wildfire season, and it is important now more than ever that Oregonians and visitors practice wildfire prevention. Please help our firefighters by being wildfire aware.”
Four other task forces, from Clackamas, Clatsop, Washington and Yamhill counties, are assigned to the Telephone Fire in Harney County. Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for that incident on Thursday, marking the tenth this summer. The Telephone Fire is now estimated at 46,000 acres and 23% contained.
Photo: A structural task force from the Oregon coast works on the Telephone Fire.
