Douglas County declares State of Emergency due to Jack Fire

Douglas County, Ore. – The Douglas County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution declaring a State of Emergency for Douglas County today, Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at their Weekly Business Meeting, in response to the Jack Fire burning up the North Umpqua Hwy (Oregon Hwy 138) near Dry Creek. At the time of the declaration, homes and structures in the area were under LEVEL 3 – GO! mandatory evacuation order from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Oregon’s Governor has already declared an emergency conflagration declaration for the Jack Fire, as well as several other wildfires all over Oregon.

“Conditions are very unpredictable and hazardous right now, with winds, dry temperatures and extreme terrain making it incredibly difficult for fire crews working the front lines right now,” commented Commissioner Tim Freeman. “Our number one priority is the safety and health of our residents and those fighting the fires. Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners agree that immediate action must be taken, and we must utilize all available resources to protect everything and everyone from devastating wildfires.”

The Board of Commissioners encourage everyone to be extremely careful and conscientious about all their activities, especially outdoor activities, so they do not spark another fire, as our wildfire resources are already stretched way too thin.