ODF Raising Southwest Oregon Fire Danger Level to "Extreme" on Tuesday Morning

Due to dry vegetation, increased fire behavior and consistently hot and windy conditions, the Oregon Department of Forestry is raising the local fire danger level to "extreme" on Tuesday. At 12:01 a.m. tomorrow, the fire danger level in Josephine and Jackson counties will be elevated to extreme -- the Industrial Fire Precaution Level will remain "2." During extreme fire danger, the use of all power-driven machinery including power saws; the cutting, grinding and welding of metal; and the mowing of dead or dry grass is completely prohibited on ODF-protected lands. The operation of any other spark-emitting internal combustion engines not specifically mentioned is also prohibited. Use of electric chainsaws and the mowing of green grass are allowed.All other fire prevention regulations remain in effect including the ban on outdoor debris burning and the use of fireworks. Open fires are prohibited except in approved fire rings at designated campgrounds. In other locations clear of dry vegetation, portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed. Smoking is prohibited while traveling except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other designated locations. Motor vehicles -- including motorcycles and ATVs -- may only be used on improved roads free of flammable vegetation except when used for the culture and harvest of agricultural crops. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles traveling on ODF-protected lands must be equipped with one 2.5-pound or larger fire extinguisher. More information about local fire season regulations can be found by visiting "swofire.com." ...Read more

OHA Warns Residents that Hot Conditions Can Lead to Heat-Related Illnesses

As summer reaches its peak -- and with a hazardous heat advisory in effect -- the Oregon Health Authority encourages people to avoid activities that could lead to heat stroke and heat exhaustion. OHA officials said older adults, infants and children, people who live or work outdoors, and people with chronic medical conditions are most vulnerable to the impacts of high temperatures. OHA offers several tips for staying safe and healthy during extreme heat. They include staying in air-conditioned places if possible and limiting sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day. Schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening. Use portable fans to bring in cooler air and push warmer air out of rooms and spaces, but don't use portable fans as the primary cooling source if indoor temps are above 90 degrees. People who don't have air conditioners can find cooler indoor air with family or friends, or at designated cooling centers, if available. Use cool compresses, misting, cool showers and baths, and wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of fluids, especially when working outside. Avoid alcohol or liquids with large amounts of sugar or caffeine. ...Read more

GP City Council Approved Grants for 2 New Urban Renewal Projects Across Town

Acting as the Urban Renewal Agency Board, the Grants Pass City Council last week approved two grants for urban renewal projects. The first was a Building Restoration and Rehabilitation Grant of $50,000 to support the installation of fire suppression equipment in the building that will become the Ivy School and Children's Museum of Southern Oregon. The project will expand the availability of child care and support workforce development in the SW 4th Street building that formerly housed Dutch Bros headquarters. The second was a Public Infrastructure and Underdeveloped Land Grant of $144,522 to support the expansion of Magazine Exchange and public infrastructure in the Spalding Industrial Park. This project will support business expansion, add jobs to a local distribution firm, make available additional industrial space, and extend water, sewer and transportation infrastructure to vacant industrial lands on the east side of the city. ...Read more