In December of 2025, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Management asked local residents to share their experiences, concerns, and priorities related to natural hazards and emergency preparedness in a community-wide survey. The response was strong: 771 citizens participated in the Natural Hazards Survey, providing valuable insights that will help shape the 2026 Deschutes County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan (NHMP).
Survey results show residents are most impacted by winter storms, wildfire, and extreme heat, and place the highest priority on safe evacuation routes, reliable utilities, clean water, trained emergency responders, and protection of critical facilities.
“This level of participation tells us people care deeply about preparedness and community safety,” said Ashley Volz, Emergency Services Coordinator with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. “We heard loud and clear that residents want clear information, practical tools, and planning that reflects the realities of living in Central Oregon.”
Key Survey Findings
Top hazards experienced
- Winter storms (62%)
- Wildfire (58%)
- Extreme heat (40%)
Preparedness actions: Many households have signed up for emergency alerts and created evacuation plans or supply kits, but fewer have documented property, built emergency savings, or completed more complex preparedness steps.
Barriers to preparedness: Time, cost, storage limitations, and lack of clear information were the most cited challenges.
Trusted information sources: Emergency services were identified as the most trusted source for preparedness and safety information, followed by email newsletters, online news, and social media.
Next Steps
Survey results will directly inform the development of the 2026 Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, which guides Deschutes County’s efforts to reduce risk, prioritize projects, and pursue grant funding for hazard mitigation and preparedness. The Office of Emergency Management plans to complete the following:
- Use survey feedback to guide planning discussions and mitigation priorities
- Continue community outreach and education focused on practical, achievable preparedness steps
- Share additional opportunities for public input as the planning process moves forward
Residents interested in learning more or staying involved are encouraged to contact the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management at emergency.management@
Survey results and key findings are available here: NHMP-Public-Survey-Key-
