New research by PEMCO Mutual Insurance has found that while a significant portion of residents in the Pacific Northwest are expressing concern about the environmental and safety risks associated with wildfires, many are not translating that concern into preparedness.
The survey, which polled residents of Washington and Oregon, found that 82% of respondents are worried about wildfires threatening their homes, property, or personal safety. Despite this, 26% of individuals admitted they fail to take any preventive steps before wildfires or smoky conditions become imminent.
Conducted by Qualtrics for PEMCO, the poll also revealed a geographic divide in the level of concern. Residents of Western Washington, particularly in the Seattle area, were twice as likely as those in Eastern Washington’s Spokane to express no concern about wildfire threats (22% vs. 11%).
The difference between Portland and Spokane was less stark, with 17% of Portlanders indicating they are not at all concerned about wildfires. In contrast, Spokane residents, who face a more direct wildfire threat, show heightened awareness. Nearly 90% of them expressed at least some concern about potential damage to their property or personal safety.
“We see that our communities are paying attention – the warmer and drier our climate gets, the more we’re experiencing frequent and severe weather events like wildfires,” said Jennifer Hawton, a spokesperson for PEMCO. “But we also see that there’s a gap in knowledge – or action – in what residents can do to prepare.
“At PEMCO, we champion safety above all else. That’s why we’re focused on sharing with those around us how they can help keep their family, their neighbors, and our communities throughout the Pacific Northwest safe.”
While awareness of wildfires is on the rise, the poll examined how residents are responding to the increasing risks and effects. A striking 95% of respondents expressed concern about the smoky, polluted air caused by wildfires. One in three residents noted that smoky conditions negatively impact their health and wellbeing.
Among various preparedness actions, purchasing an air purifier was the most common, with 50% of respondents saying they have one to protect themselves from smoke. This is a marked increase from the 37% who reported doing so in 2022, the last time PEMCO conducted a similar survey.
The poll also showed that nearly double the number of respondents regularly check the air quality index to plan their daily activities compared to 2022, with 22% saying they always monitor it, up from 13%.
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