Wildfire Resources
Happy Valley is deeply committed to wildfire safety and providing residents with up-to-date information and resources to mitigate wildfire risks. Surrounded by thousands of acres of parks, trails, natural areas, and open spaces, our community enjoys the beauty of nature but also faces heightened wildfire risks. Recent years have shown us the dangers posed by improperly managed forests and open spaces, which can lead to hazardous conditions for residents. By prioritizing education, prevention, and collaboration, Happy Valley strives to protect its community and preserve the natural areas we all cherish.
ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A WILDFIRE?
Ready, Set, Go!
Ready – Be Ready. Prepare for the threat of wildfire by creating defensible space around your home.
Set – Get Set. Create and prepare your wildfire action plan – a checklist that includes evacuation routes and emergency meeting locations. Stay alert and know how to receive the latest news and information on the fire from local media and Clackamas Fire. Prepare to leave at a moment’s notice. Fill out a Wildfire Action plan Here
Go! – Act Early. When the threat of wildfire is imminent – evacuate now! Leave immediately. Wildfires are unpredictable and change direction without warning. By leaving early, you give you and your family the best chance of surviving.
The city has compiled a list of helpful resources that may be beneficial to those interested in learning more about wildfire prevention and emergency response.
Become a Firewise Community
Happy Valley Wildfire Assessment Program
Oregon Defensible Space for Homeowners
Clackamas County, Oregon Facebook
Clackamas County Wildfires
Clackamas County Disaster Management
Public Alert Sign Up
Wildfire Evacuation Map:
Clackamas Fire District #1
Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office
Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal
»»»Facebook informational page
Oregon DEQ
Air advisories
Oregon Department of Transportation Facebook
»»»trip check
Oregon Health Authority Facebook
Oregon Health Authority
Pet Safety Information
Oregon Department of Forestry
U.S. Forest Service
PGE Wildfire Resources
Did you know the city received funding for a Wildfire Risk Reduction Program? This initiative will help create defensible spaces in HOA-managed green spaces identified as having high or moderate wildfire risk.
What is Defensible Space?
Defensible space is the area around your home or business and nearby grass, trees, shrubs, or wildland. Keeping this area mowed and free of overgrown brush and dry material can help your property survive a wildfire. Defensible space improves safety for people and firefighters and make evacuations easier. Embers, which can travel up to three miles ahead of the main fire, are the biggest reason homes are lost during wildfires.
Tips to Create Defensible Space
- Clear out dried leaves and pine needles from gutters, eaves, and around your chimney.
- Trim the lower branches of trees so they don’t act as a ladder for fire to reach the treetops.
- Keep patios free of dry materials, like leaves or old wood, especially in the summer.
- Store firewood and leftover construction materials at least 30 feet away from your house.
- Trim bushes near your house so they don’t touch the walls or siding.
- Clean leaves, needles, and debris off your roof and out of gutters regularly.
- Remove plants and bushes growing directly under the eaves of your house; leave at least a five-foot gap.
- Use 1/8-inch metal mesh to cover attic vents, soffit vents, and open spaces under decks and patios.
- Clear leaves, dead wood, mulch, and other debris from on, under, and around decks and fences.