Despite the continued hot and dry mid-summer like weather, hunting season has begun across Idaho. Please do not be complacent about the importance of fire prevention and safety. Hunters and recreationalist continue to enjoy public lands during the fall, appreciating the typical brisk mornings and warm afternoons, but the potential to start a wildfire is still high.
“As we begin our late summer and fall activities, our current weather patterns are showing prolonged hot temperatures and no precipitation. Please keep current conditions in mind while you enjoy our wonderful public lands,” said BLM Idaho State Fire Management Officer Dennis Strange. “Fire crews are still active in keeping everyone safe. Please do your part in keeping our public lands enjoyable for all.”
On May 10, 2020, BLM Idaho State
Director John F. Ruhs issued a Fire Prevention Order to prohibit the
possession or use of steel core/incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding
targets. In general, please be proactive and take precautionary measures while
shooting by clearing all flammable materials and rocks away from the target
area, and make sure to have fire safety equipment on hand (shovel, fire
extinguisher and/or water). Studies has shown that sparks from steel core/steel
jacketed fragments cause vegetation fires as much as lead core/copper jacketed
and solid copper jackets fragments. The Fire Prevention Order remains in effect
until Oct. 20, 2020.
Before you head out to your
favorite hunting spot 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 thrown from an improperly maintained vehicle or trailer can
cause roadside fires without knowledge of the driver.
Finally,
everyone enjoys a campfire, but several areas across Idaho are currently in
fire restrictions. The devastating effects of an illegal or unattended campfire
could last for many years. Please take the proper steps to follow any
implemented restrictions and completely extinguish your campfire fire before
leaving the area.
For more information on
current area wildfires, fire restrictions, and fire prevention information visit
www.idahofireinfo.com, Idaho Fire Info on Facebook, and
follow @BLMIdahoFire on Twitter.
