Governor invokes emergency conflagration act in response to Deer Ridge Fire

Governor Kulongoski Invokes Emergency Conflagration Act in Response to Deer Ridge Fire
Fire located near Medford threatened nearly 300 homes at its peak

Salem – Yesterday afternoon Governor Ted Kulongoski invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act in response to the fire near Medford in Jackson County.

In accordance with ORS 476.510-476.610, the Governor determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fire and that the threat exceeds the fire-fighting capabilities of local fire-fighting personnel and equipment.

By invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act, the Governor ordered the Oregon State Police and the Oregon State Fire Marshall to mobilize fire resources statewide and coordinate with all appropriate Fire Defense Chiefs for the use of personnel and equipment to suppress and contain the fire.

“Conditions in the area are very volatile and the fire threatens both life and property, which is why I have directed all available state resources to help contain this fire,” said Governor Kulongoski. “I want to make sure that this community has every resource necessary to fight this fire and protect the safety of citizens of Jackson County.”

The fire has burned approximately 633 acres and efforts to line the perimeter continue. This emergency is declared only for the Deer Ridge fire near Medford and was effective immediately.

The Governor also invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act yesterday in response to the Siskiyou Fire near Ashland, which remains at approximately 153 acres.