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Boise, ID — Gov. Brad Little will proclaim May as Wildfire Awareness Month this Friday, urging Idahoans to begin preparations now as wildfire season begins.
With warmer temperatures, below-normal snowpack in some areas and drying fuels already emerging across parts of the state, conditions are aligning for a potentially active fire season.
“Once started, fires don’t recognize fence lines or jurisdictional boundaries,” said IDL Director Dustin Miller. “Fire is a natural part of Idaho’s landscape, but under the right conditions, it can spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes and communities. That’s why it’s critical for everyone to do their part to prevent unwanted human-caused fires and be prepared. Educating the public about the steps they can take to prevent unwanted human-caused fires and strengthen wildfire resilience is our top priority.”
The Idaho Department of Lands is engaging communities statewide through wildfire preparedness events and outreach efforts. The agency’s website provides information on fire prevention, defensible space and preparedness resources to help Idahoans reduce risk before fire season intensifies.
Improving the survivability of homes in wildfire-prone areas depends on proactive planning and mitigation. Creating and maintaining defensible space, the area around structures where vegetation and fuels are managed, can help slow or reduce the intensity of an approaching wildfire and increase the chances of structure survival.
Wildfires also threaten many of Idaho’s outdoor recreation areas. As part of the Recreate Responsibly Idaho coalition, the Idaho Department of Lands encourages residents and visitors to practice fire safety while enjoying the outdoors.
“We want Idaho’s natural resources to be enjoyed for generations to come,” Miller said. “That takes all of us making responsible choices to reduce wildfire risk.”
The agency’s website also provides information on active wildfires and how to sign up for free text or email alerts.
The Idaho Department of Lands will share additional wildfire prevention tips and resources on its social media channels throughout May.
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