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IDAHO FALLS, Idaho – Investigators determined the Liberty Fire (181 acres), Lava Rock Fire (8 acres) and the Cinder Fire (41 acres) were caused by target shooting.

Wildfire conditions aligned perfectly during the Fourth of July week, resulting in multiple fire starts. “When you have hot, windy conditions you only need a small spark to ignite dry grass,” said Fire Management Officer Joel Gosswilller. “Shooting certain kinds of ammunition and exploding targets create an easy ignition source.” The potential for target shooting to start wildfires is why the BLM Fire Prevention Order prohibits discharging incendiary, steel core, tracer ammunition and exploding targets on BLM lands from May 10^th to October 20^th.

Shoot responsibly! Using exploding targets or prohibited ammunition on BLM lands is a misdemeanor and violators could be liable for costs associated with fire suppression, rehabilitation and property damage.

In addition, firefighters ask that people be cognizant of other activities occurring around them while they are shooting on public lands. People continued to shoot in and around the fire perimeter while firefighters were suppressing the Cinder Fire near ID-33. This created huge safety concerns for our firefighters. Please be aware of first responders and recreating public when picking a place to target shoot.

Take these shooting precautions:

• Check weather conditions. Hot + Dry + Wind = Quick Spreading Wildfires
• Choose a shooting area that is clear of dry grass/vegetation and rocks.
• Have a proper backstop.
• Always bring water, a fire extinguisher and a shovel.
• Discharging a firearm using incendiary, steel core or tracer ammunition is prohibited on BLM lands from May 10^th to October 20^th.
• Burning, igniting or causing to burn explosive material, including exploding targets is prohibited on BLM lands from May 10th to October 20^th.

Do your part to prevent one less wildfire.