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After a cool, wet spring, summer 2022 is now in full swing with hot, dry weather and recreationists heading outdoors in potentially record numbers. While wildfire is possible statewide, individuals are asked to use extra care in southern Idaho. An average of 80% of wildfires are caused by humans.
A wet spring provided moisture to grow grasses in the lower part of the state which will dry out and be more likely to catch fire and spread quickly. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has already responded to a grass fire this week. The Sugarloaf Fire north of Twin Falls was estimated at 5,000 acres on Wednesday.
Each year, fire officials see a spike in human-caused wildfires, particularly around the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends, most often from unattended campfires, fireworks, dragging tow chains, driving on dry grass, and improper disposal of hot ashes and BBQ coals.
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Know before you go – Check the BLM Idaho Fire Information website at https://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and the Idaho Department of Lands Fire Information and Resources website at https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/ to see if there are any fire restrictions or closures before venturing out.
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Drown your campfire – Make sure your fire is “dead out” and cold to the touch before leaving your campsite or going to bed. Keep your campfire small and use a designated campfire ring when available and permissible.
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Leave the fireworks at home – Fireworks are prohibited on federal public lands. During closed fire season (May 10 to October 20), it is illegal to throw away any lighted material, including fire crackers or fireworks on any forest or rangeland in the State of Idaho (Idaho Code 38-117). Starting a wildfire by the use of fireworks is considered negligence, and the person who started the fire will be billed for the cost of fighting the fire (Idaho Code 38-107).
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Don’t be the spark – Do not drive or park on dry grass. Hot exhaust pipes or sparks can start a fire. This includes off-highway vehicles and personal vehicles.
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Check your chains – When pulling a trailer, be sure safety chains and other metal parts aren’t hanging from your vehicle as these can drag and cause sparks.
“Please remember that fireworks, and the possession of fireworks, are prohibited on federal public lands, regardless of weather conditions or holidays,” said Steve Stuebner, RRI campaign coordinator and outdoor expert. “Exploding targets and other pyrotechnic devices, such as Tannerite, are also prohibited on federal public lands in Idaho administered by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management.“
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