Smoke Lingers; Road Striping; Eclipse May Cause Gas Spike

Smoke Lingers From Fire

The Baker Beach fire that ignited more than an acre of brush just north of the Baker beach campground has been contained.  There were several calls yesterday due to lingering smoke, but Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue Chief Jim Langborg say that the smoke is likely to hang around/

“I suspect this thing is going to smoke for a couple of days. There’s really not anything we can do about that but just letting people know.”

Langborg says that people should be very fire conscious and that most of the fires that we have seen are human caused.

“We know that these fires, under the right conditions, can be very devastating and result in a lot of property loss and even lives at times.”

Langborg also said that if you have to do yard maintenance do it early in the morning prior to 10 am. And be very careful.

Striping City Roads

For the next two days Lane County Crews in conjunction with the city of Florence will be out on the roadways doing line striping.  The City of Florence maintains just under 88 miles of roadway and maintaining striping helps to preserve safety.  The city wants to remind people that while they do use fast drying paint it is important to give crews the necessary distance to effectively do their jobs.  Trying to pass paint vehicles can result in damage to your vehicle and it is also dangerous to the crews working.  If you do happen to get paint on your vehicle the city recommends that you wash it off immediately with a high pressure hose and soapy water.  If drivers cross the wet paint the city and county will deny claims of damage.

Gas Prices Expected to Spike

AAA Oregon says prices will likely spike in the month of August due to the reserve supply dwindling and the forthcoming eclipse.  Spokesperson Marie Dodds says the addition of a million visitors will put a strain on our inventory

“So that’s going to amount to a very robust demand for gasoline and fuel.”

Dodds adds that certain areas will see an even greater bump in prices so plan ahead.

“Expect them to be higher especially in the path of totality and do be prepared don’t let your tank get down to empty before you look for a station where you can fill up.”

First responders are also concerned about the ability to quickly assist stranded or injured motorists so Dodds suggests that you keep your vehicle well stocked with water, food and a first aid kit.