Think Out Loud

What it’s like to survive a wildfire

By Rolando Hernandez (OPB)
Feb. 7, 2022 6:02 p.m.

Broadcast: Monday, Feb. 7

The incident command center for the Santiam Fire toppled onto the road near Gates, Ore., as shown in this September 2020 OPB file photo.  A recent OSU study shows survivors have concerns of water pollution and housing after the 2020 Santiam Fires, which heavily affected Gates.

The incident command center for the Santiam Fire toppled onto the road near Gates, Ore., as shown in this September 2020 OPB file photo. A recent OSU study shows survivors have concerns of water pollution and housing after the 2020 Santiam Fires, which heavily affected Gates.

Bradley W. Parks / OPB

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Housing, water pollution and mental health are just a few concerns from survivors of the Santiam Fire, according to a recent Oregon State University study. Researchers conducted in-person interviews and collected anonymous survey results to understand what survivors were facing. We’ll hear from Sandi Phibbs, the evaluation and research manager at OSU Center for Health and Innovation, on the results of the study. We’ll also hear from Gates Mayor Ron Carmickle on how fires affected his own community.

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