Local businesses urged to prepare for wildfire season

Lane County Economic Development is urging local employers and businesses to take steps now to protect your employees, your facilities and your operations during what is expected to be a challenging 2026 fire season. An exceptionally mild winter and historically low mountain snowpack has created conditions that increase the likelihood of drier fuels and earlier fire activity. The National Interagency Fire Center is projecting an above-normal fire potential across Western Oregon this summer. By evaluating insurance coverage and emergency plans now, businesses can save time, money, and heartache down the road.

"Our local businesses are the heart of Lane County's economy and it's important that they are as prepared for wildfires as people are at home," said Samantha Roberts, Lane County community and economic development analyst. "These guides can help give businesses of all sizes here in Lane County a head start on preparing."

Recommended actions for Lane County businesses:

• Sign up for Lane Alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org to receive emergency alerts.
• Prepare your business and visit Lane County Community and Economic Development at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/EcoDev to download free guides for disaster and wildfire preparation.
• Review Oregon OSHA wildfire smoke rules and Lane County's air quality guidance. Be prepared for poor air quality and business interruptions.
• Encourage employees to be 2-Weeks Ready at home.
• Maintain a 5-foot non-combustible zone around buildings.
• Use the Red Cross Ready Rating program and Small Business Administration (SBA preparedness) checklist to be prepared in the event of emergency.
• Confirm wildfire and business interruption insurance coverage. Don't find yourself under-insured when the need arises.
• Improve evacuation readiness by planning routes, training staff, and preparing go-kits.

For more information, visit:

• Lane County Emergency Management
• Community and Economic Development Lane County - Business Resources