American Red Cross warns Oregon, Washingon residents to prepare for 2024 wildfire season

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The American Red Cross is warning residents in Oregon and Washington to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season now.

“The best defense during an emergency is to be prepared,” the Red Cross stated in a public announcement on May 15.

The Red Cross reminds residents that in 2020, Oregon suffered its worst wildfire season on record, which consumed more than 1 million acres of land and displaced thousands of people for months.

“In 2024, we are anticipating warmer summer temperatures which can intensify wildfire activity,” the Ross Cross said. 

The nonprofit is also seeking more local volunteers for the 2024 wildfire season. Those interested in volunteering with the Red Cross can sign up through the organization’s website.

“Comprising 90% of the Red Cross workforce, volunteers are continuously providing shelter, comfort, hot meals, health services and recovery support to families in need across the country,” the Red Cross said. “We need you!”

The Red Cross provides the following tips for preparing your household for wildfire season:

• Build an emergency kit with bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a battery-powered radio. Also include medications, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers and emergency contact information.
• Make an evacuation plan with what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you must evacuate. Make sure to coordinate with your child’s school, your work and your community’s emergency plans — and don’t forget your pets.
• Know how to stay informed by finding out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders.