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Hood River News Editorial
July 29, 2006
Orange and white cloud scarves and caps appear mornings on Mt. Burdoin,
Mt. Defiance, and Underwood Mountain, dressing up the mid-Columbia
Gorge in what looks like cooling attire.
Temperatures certainly have cooled in the last few days, but the cloud
regalia dissipates each day and temperatures are expected to remain in
the 80s — with no sign of moisture in sight.
Gov. Ted Kulongoski declared an emergency due to wildfire threat last
week, and a full burn ban goes into effect in Hood River County on
Aug. 1.
That decision gives all the more reason to stop by the fire
departments’ booth during the Hood River County Fair to learn more
about prevention.
The Odell Rural Fire Protection District is coordinating the effort to
have all fire departments this year’s county fair booth and first aid
station, which will be located near the bathrooms.
Tiny future firefighters can don child-sized turnouts and have their
pictures taken during Odell Fire’s shift on a fire truck at the booth.
Friday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Pine Grove will be on hand, followed from
6 p.m. to 11 p.m. by West Side.
On Saturday, it’s Hood River from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Parkdale 1 p.m. to
6 p.m. and Odell from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Dee took a turn on Thursday.)
From simple fire prevention tips while hiking or camping to extensive
wildfire protection measures involving home perimeters, there are
plenty of steps the average person can do to reduce the risk of fire.
Local fire agencies stand ready to provide this information, at the
fair or anytime.
In his declaration, Kulongoski said, “We are committed to doing
everything in our power to make smart use of state resources to
protect families and communities.”
Families and communities can do their parts, too. |
