RESIDENTS SHOULD PLAN TRAVELS ACROSS OREGON DUE TO WILDFIRES

July 29, 2024 3:40 a.m.

Residents should plan their travels across Oregon due to wildfire-related road closures.

An update from the Oregon Department of Transportation said fires are actively burning near many highways, causing them to close and reopen with little notice. ODOT’s Julie Denney said with a long hot summer ahead, wildfire-related disruptions are likely to continue throughout the state making some routes unreliable.

Denney said those who must travel, ODOT suggests trying to plan a route that is far away from wildfires. Visit www.tripcheck.com for the latest road conditions before starting a trip.

Some essential tips for traveling during wildfire season:

*Use designated detours: Follow official detour signs and routes provided by transportation authorities. Do not follow GPS directions on local or forest roads as these roads are often unsuitable for interstate traffic.

*Carry an emergency kit: Oregon Emergency Management suggests packing these supplies in your vehicle before hitting the road.

*Drive safely in smoke: Driving in smoky conditions is like driving in heavy fog. Reduce speed, maintain a steady pace and stay alert. Use headlights to improve visibility.

*Stay home is possible. The safest place to wait for a road to reopen is at home. Do not travel to closure points to wait because closures could last for hours or days.

For information on current fires, go to the National Interagency Fire Center’s website. https://www.nifc.gov/