Emergency management officials across Oregon and Idaho are delivering an urgent message as the 2026 wildfire season ramps up earlier than usual: don't wait for smoke on the horizon to start planning your escape route.

The Columbia Gorge corridor fires, the Summit Creek Fire in Idaho's Sawtooth National Forest, and evacuation notices already issued for portions of Horsethief Park in Washington state serve as reminders that wildfire emergencies can unfold within minutes. Having a plan — and practicing it — can be the difference between an orderly evacuation and a life-threatening scramble.

Know Oregon's Evacuation Level System

Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system that is also widely referenced in Washington and Idaho. Understanding what each level means is essential for making quick decisions when a fire threatens your area:

  • Level 1 — Be Ready: Be aware of the danger in your area. Prepare your go-bag, medication lists, and important documents. Monitor local media and emergency alerts.
  • Level 2 — Be Set: Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice. This means your vehicle is packed, your animals are loaded or arrangements are made, and you are ready to move immediately if conditions worsen.
  • Level 3 — Go Now: Leave immediately. There is imminent danger to your area. Do not delay to gather belongings. Use your pre-planned route and go.

Build Your Go-Bag Now

Emergency managers recommend having a go-bag prepared and easily accessible throughout fire season. A basic wildfire go-bag should include:

  • Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance, medical records) stored in a waterproof pouch
  • At least three days of prescription medications
  • Phone charger and portable battery pack
  • Cash in small bills
  • Change of clothes and sturdy shoes
  • N95 masks for smoke protection
  • Water and non-perishable food for 72 hours
  • Pet food, carrier, and veterinary records if you have animals

Large Animals Require Early Action

For residents with horses, cattle, and other large animals, evacuation is dramatically more complex and time-consuming. Idaho Red Cross communications officials have noted that animal owners should identify fairgrounds, fairgrounds, and livestock facilities along evacuation routes now — before an emergency — and coordinate with neighbors who might assist with trailering in an emergency. During major fire events, the Red Cross and local emergency managers can establish livestock evacuation facilities, but the capacity of those facilities is limited and early action is always preferable.

Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

Every Pacific Northwest resident should be signed up for their county's emergency alert system. In Oregon, this is done through Oregon Alerts (oregonalerts.gov). In Washington, use WA-Alert (waalert.wa.gov). In Idaho, residents should register with their county's CodeRED or similar system.

Taking 30 minutes today to prepare your go-bag, confirm your evacuation route, and sign up for alerts could prove to be the most important preparation you make before the summer of 2026.