Oregon Strong – Wildfire Response

The word of the year is “unprecedented.” In our lifetimes, we have never seen such devastation – lives, property, and businesses lost to circumstances outside of our control.

What is incredible is how many of you have responded. You saw the need and rose to the occasion, offering lodging for people who have lost everything, free meals for the community, and hope for the future. There is a reason Oregon is known for its hospitality, and it’s on full display in the most challenging of times for our industry. Thank you! We couldn’t be more proud of our community’s spirit and resolve. 

Because we know how challenging circumstances are right now, here is some information you need to know in response to Oregon’s wildfires. 

Public Safety Power Shutoffs
Please be aware of current policies from your regional utilities. Both Portland General Electric and Pacific Power have indicated they will continue with policies to cut power in extreme conditions. Pacific Power has a monitor to check for potential areas affected by this policy. Portland General Electric has enacted shutoffs in response to the conditions near Mt. Hood; read more on the PGE FAQ.

Utilities are generally looking at several factors before making this decision and are committing to proactive communication. The Pacific Power criteria includes:

• Dry trees and brush and other potential wildfire fuel
• High, sustained winds
• Extremely low humidity
• Current and forecasted weather conditions from multiple third parties and our own weather stations 
• Population density
• Real-time observation from on-the-ground experts
• Input from local public safety and health agencies

Be sure to have a plan in place for such emergency conditions. Contact your local health authority for more information on what they would require for maintaining operations in an emergency. Feel free to contact your Membership Representative with questions or to connect with others who have explored this subject.

How Can I Help?
Please visit Travel Oregon’s Ways To Help During Oregon Wildfires, a guide for where to donate money, supplies, and volunteer time. 

To get the latest updates and links to safety registries, mental health resources, current condition reports, and more, visit Wildfire.oregon.gov. If you are looking for hotels offering discounts for fire evacuees in the valley, visit Travel Portland's resource page.

Nicole Peterson
ORLA Government Affairs Coordinator

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