Hunters and Wildfire Safety:
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STATEWIDE, Idaho – As the weather starts to cool and fire conditions decrease, please don’t be complacent about the importance of fire prevention and safety. Recreationists continue to enjoy public lands during the fall, appreciating brisk mornings and warm afternoons, but the potential to start a wildfire still exists.
“Wildfire conditions are dynamic this time of year,” said BLM Idaho State Fire Management Officer Dennis Strange. “We are still seeing wildfires make runs in the afternoon when weather conditions are prime, but the cooler temperatures are helping fire resources achieve a quicker containment.”
On May 10, 2019, 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, 2019.
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 the devastating effects of an unattended campfire could last for many years. Please take the proper steps to completely extinguish your campfire and any warming fires before leaving the area.
For more information on current area wildfires and fire prevention information visit www.idahofireinfo.com, Idaho Fire Info on Facebook, and follow @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.