SALMON, Idaho (CBS2) — According to a recent news release, the Central Idaho Dispatch Zone has moved to High Fire Danger due to weather and fuel conditions meaning all dead fuels ignite readily, and fires start effortlessly.
Unattended fires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly, and short-distance spotting is common. High-intensity burning may develop on slopes or in concentrations of fine fuels. Fires may become difficult to control unless they are hit hard and fast while small.
Forest officials ask the public to be extremely careful when camping and maintain and extinguish all campfires.
If you are planning a camping, hiking or motorized trip, be especially cautious about actions that could cause a wildfire:
- Never leave a campfire unattended. Always add water, stir it and make sure all embers are out. If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
- Always use a campfire ring or fire pan when building a campfire.
- Take precautions if you are recreational shooting. Never shoot into dry vegetation. Ensure you are shooting in a safe location. Shooting exploding targets is prohibited on National Forest System lands in the Intermountain Region.
- Refrain from smoking in wooded, grassy or brushy areas. Make sure your cigarette is fully extinguished before leaving.
- Fireworks are illegal on public lands in every forest, every campsite, every day. Never light fireworks in the woods.
- Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained with nothing dragging on the ground. A loose safety chain or dangling muffler can send sparks into dry vegetation.
- Keep vehicles off dry grass. The catalytic converter may contact the vegetation and start a fire.
- Always carry a shovel and fire extinguisher.
- Know before you go. Always check with your local Ranger Station for the most up-to-date information on fire danger and restrictions.
- It is best to pre-plan your route and share information with people not on the trip with you. Having predetermined check-in points with reliable methods of communication is critical to let your friend and family know where you are should someone need to contact you.
If you start a wildfire, you could be liable for damages and firefighting costs.
If you need to report a wildfire, call Central Idaho Dispatch Center at 208-756-5157 or 911 as soon as possible.
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