Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority

11/04/2026

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
The Western Lane Ambulance District Board of Directors extends our sincere thanks to the community for supporting the renewal of our operational levy. Its passage helps maintain local ambulance services and the emergency medical care our residents and visitors depend on. Your support reflects the trust you place in our paramedics, EMTs, support staff, and leadership. Every day, these dedicated professionals serve our community with skill, compassion, and commitment.
As your Board, we remain committed to responsible financial oversight, careful stewardship of public funds, and maintaining reliable ambulance service. Thank you for investing in the health and safety of Western Lane County and for your continued confidence in your local ambulance district.

Western Lane Ambulance District Board of Directors

11/03/2026

The temperature's dropping. Check out these safety tips from the NFPA regarding the use of portable space heaters:
HEATER CHECKLIST
• Purchase a heater with the seal of a qualified
testing laboratory.
• Keep the heater at least 3 feet (1 metre) away
from anything that can burn, including people.
• Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat
protection.
• Place the heater on a solid, flat surface.
• Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off to turn
the heater off if it tips over.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic.
Never block an exit.
• Keep children away from the space heater.
• Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet.
Never use an extension cord.
• Space heaters should be turned off and
unplugged when you leave the room or go to bed.
nfpa.org/education

10/30/2026

Congratulations to Cindy Gentry on her appointment as Western Lane Crisis Response Program Manager and her recent recognition in The Daily Dispatch! Checkout The Daily Dispatch Oregon to see the full article.

Cindy and our crisis response team provide compassionate support to people facing some of life’s most difficult moments. By helping individuals and families navigate crises and connect with resources, they make a meaningful difference throughout Western Lane County.

We’re proud of Cindy’s leadership and grateful for the entire team’s dedication to caring for our neighbors. Please join us in congratulating Cindy and thanking this outstanding team!

10/28/2026

Happy National First Responders Day!

Today, Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority extends a heartfelt thank you to our local firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, public works, CLPUD, and all of our public safety partners who serve our community.

We are fortunate to live and work in a community where agencies come together to support one another and care for our neighbors in times of need.

We also recognize the families, support staff, and volunteers who work behind the scenes and make this service possible. Your dedication and sacrifices are equally appreciated.

To everyone who plays a role in keeping our community safe, thank you for all that you do!

10/23/2026

FIVE FALL PROJECTS TO PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE

Project 5 - Improve Emergency Access

First responders require safe, clear entry to navigate neighborhoods. Driveways must maintain a clearance of at least 13 feet 6 inches vertically and 20 feet horizontally to accommodate large fire engines.

Properties should feature reflective, well-lit address signs at the entrance that are clearly visible from both directions.

10/23/2026

Last night, at our monthly Board of Directors meeting, we had the pleasure of presenting a Letter of Commendation to EMT Hallie Burns for her performance and professionalism during a motor vehicle accident involving one of our units. The letter was written by her partner, Paramedic/Engineer Charlie York. Thanks to Burns, the only injuries sustained were to the apparatus.

10/23/2026

WLFEA responders participated in the 38th Annual Pumpkin Giveaway at the saw shop this evening. Kudos to True Value, Coast Radio, Florence Police, Oregon State Patrol, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Lions Club, Domino’s, and everyone else that made the night successful. It’s so great to connect with our community and see so many smiles - something we don’t see enough of on the job. Our responders look forward to this event every year. Stay safe this Halloween!

10/21/2026

FIVE FALL PROJECTS TO PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE

Project 4 - Prune and Space Trees and Shrubs

Low-hanging branches, tall grass, and dense brush allow fire to climb into upper tree canopies. Pruning tree limbs creates vertical separation: for trees over 18 feet tall, remove lower branches up to six feet from the ground; for trees under 18 feet tall, prune lower limbs up to one-third of the tree's total height.

10/20/2026

Registration for Toys for Tots is now open through November 20, 2026. You can call 541-997-3212 Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm to register your child.
Participants must be between the ages of 0 - 13 and reside within the Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority boundaries which includes the communities of Florence, Dunes City, Mapleton, Swisshome, and Deadwood. https://www.wlfea.org/stations-and-district-map/
Proof of residency will be verified prior to the toy distribution. Photo ID or mail showing name/address are accepted for proof of residency.
Toys for Tots will be distributed on Saturday, December 12, 2026 from 10am to 2pm at Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority - Station 1. Station 1 is located at 2625 Highway 101, Florence, OR.

10/16/2026

Fire season to end Friday; Backyard Debris Burning Opens Saturday 10/17 for Lane County. The Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) Western Lane And South Cascade Districts and the Lane Fire Defense Board (LFDB) have announced that fire season in Lane County will officially close at 11:59 p.m. Friday, October 16, 2026. Beginning Saturday, October 17, backyard debris burning will open, which is regulated by the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA).

Burning restrictions in Lane County today. Pollution has no boundaries and asks that all local residents abide by the advisory program.