The men and women of the Gaston Rural Fire District love what they do. But they would be even happier if their skills were never needed. Preventing fires and injuries is the District's top priority. Here are some tips to stay safe:
Forms and checklists to keep you safe
We've made it easy to download and print home-safety checklists, home-escape route plans, emergency medical information, address sign requests and more. Click here.
State fire laws
Here's a handy list of state laws concerning fire prevention, protection and enforcement, compiled by the Oregon State Police. Click here.
Backyard burning
The dangers from improper backyard burning extend beyond the risk of uncontrolled blazes. You could be unknowingly risking the health or even lives of your sick or elderly neighbors with the smoke those fires create. Click here to learn more.
Campfires and fire pits
Campfires are an Oregon tradition, but there are rules and safety tips to consider before starting one. We can't help you avoid burning your hotdog, but we can help you avoid burning down your house or starting a forest fire. Click here to learn more.
Fireplace and woodstove safety
Many of us in the Gaston area use woodstoves and fireplaces to heat our homes. We have some tips for safe use. Click here.
Fireworks safety
Fireworks are made for fun, but every year they produce tragedy as well. Keep your celebrations safe. Click here to learn how.
Driveway safety
When think about fire safety, you might not think about your driveway. But in rural areas such as ours, your driveway can pose some of the most important safety issues we face. Even finding your home can be a challenge for emergency responders. Click here for tips.
Wildfire safety
One of the best things about living in the Gaston area is the scenery all around us. Of course, having trees and fields also means we live with the ever-present threat of wildfire. Here are some tips for protecting your home and family. Click here for tips.
Move over or slow down
One of the most dangerous time for firefighters and paramedics is when they are on the side of the road helping an accident victim or stranded motorist. A recent law is designed to keep everyone safe, by having motorists move over to give emergency responders room to work. Click here to learn more.
Traffic safety and child seat information
The Alliance for Community Traffic Safety has tips for safety on the roads. Click here for help.
Flood information
We're no strangers to floods around here, but some reminders of what to do wouldn't hurt. The American Red Cross has compiled a list of how to prepare for, react to, and recover from a flood. Click here to learn more.
Safety newsletters from Washington County
Sign up for email newsletters on everything from Neighborhood Watches to animal care. Click here to learn more.