Fire Prevention is a critical component of Umatilla County Fire District #1’s mission to protect lives, property, and the communities we serve. Through inspections, investigations, public education, and risk reduction efforts, the Fire Prevention Division works to prevent emergencies before they occur while improving safety when incidents happen.

In 2025, UCFD#1’s Fire Prevention Division completed 273 inspections, a significant increase from 69 inspections in 2024. This growth was made possible through a grant-funded Deputy Fire Marshal position established in 2024. As the position became fully operational, inspection activity nearly quadrupled, allowing the District to strengthen code compliance efforts and reduce community risk. During these inspections, 498 fire code violations were identified and addressed to improve safety for businesses, employees, and the public. One notable inspection identified foam wall coverings inside a commercial business that did not meet fire safety standards. Follow-up testing confirmed the material was highly combustible, and the business replaced the material with a compliant wall covering that met flame and smoke-spread requirements.

The Fire Prevention Division also plays a key role in investigating fire incidents to determine causes and help prevent future emergencies. On June 13, 2025, the Liberty Lane Fire destroyed a residence and several unused school buses stored on adjacent property. After a thorough investigation, the cause was determined to be induced voltage from nearby high-voltage transmission lines. On July 2, 2025, the Cold Springs Fire burned more than 2,000 acres, destroying a residence, detached garage, and several vehicles. Due to the size and complexity of the incident, a State Conflagration was declared to bring additional resources into the area. Working with the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, investigators identified multiple fire origins along the railroad corridor and determined the cause was hot materials emitted from locomotive exhaust.

Fire prevention also focuses on education and community risk reduction. By providing smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installations, classroom presentations, and fire station tours, UCFD#1 helps community members understand how to prevent emergencies and respond safely when they occur. In 2025, the District reached approximately 4,000 school-aged children through fire safety education programs and station visits. These interactions not only teach important safety skills but also help children become familiar with firefighters and their protective equipment, building trust and reducing fear during emergencies.

In 2025, fire incidents resulted in injuries to two civilians and one firefighter, with no fatalities reported. The District responded to 32 illegal debris burning incidents, 15 equipment-related fires, and 14 cooking fires. Cooking fires remain a significant concern, particularly in multi-family housing where one incident can impact multiple families.

Through prevention, education, and enforcement, UCFD#1 continues to reduce risks, promote fire safety, and protect the community before emergencies occur.