Help prevent the spread of wildfires this holiday weekend
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BOISE, Idaho –As Idahoans start to enjoy the holiday week and make plans for many outdoor memories please remember that fire safety should be a ‘top priority’. Due to the spring rains, there is an abundant amount of fine, flashy fuels (grass) that has grown tall and thick in many places. This creates dangerous conditions for the wildfire community.
“It takes a ‘team effort’ to help prevent wildfire,” said BLM Idaho State Fire Management Officer, Dennis Strange. “We are asking the public to be extremely vigilant when recreating this holiday weekend and take all safety precautions to keep from igniting a wildfire.”
Over the last 10 years BLM Idaho has responded to approximately 90 wildfires caused by fireworks. To decrease these types of wildfires, the BLM issues an annual Fire Prevention Order. On May 10, BLM State Director John Ruhs signed the Fire Prevention Order making it a misdemeanor to carry, discharge or otherwise use fireworks on BLM-managed lands. Violations of the Order may bring fines and jail time. Violators who start wildfires can also be held liable for the costs of damage and suppression.
In addition to fireworks, the use and possession of incendiary/tracer ammunition, steel core ammunition and exploding targets are prohibited. Please be proactive and take precautionary measures while shooting by clearing all flammable materials and rocks away from the target area. Always have a shovel, fire extinguisher and/or water on hand.
Before departing on your holiday, make sure your vehicle and trailers are properly maintained by ensuring the safety chain is not dragging, wheel bearings are well greased, and tires are inflated to the proper level to help prevent a blown tire. Sparks can be thrown from a vehicle/trailer that is not properly maintained and can cause roadside fires without the knowledge of the driver.
Remember to completely extinguish your campfire. The devastating effects from an escaped campfire can last for many years. Currently, there are -NO- fire restrictions in effect. Please check before visiting public lands.
For more information on current area wildfires and fire prevention information visit www.idahofireinfo.com or our social media platforms: Idaho Fire Info on Facebook and Instagram and @BLMIdahoFire on Twitter!
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.