Conditions tinder dry in Idaho woods |
| September 21, 2012 |
|
A lack of rain and persistent warm and dry
weather across the Idaho Panhandle are combining
to keep much of the forest in “very high” fire
danger as we transition into fall. Forest visitors are being urged to exercise extreme caution with campfires, cigarettes and other sources of ignition as they venture into the woods for hunting, camping, firewood gathering and other recreational pursuits. Current long term weather outlooks indicate no break in the weather pattern in the foreseeable future, which means the fire danger is likely to remain very high for at least a few more weeks. “We are very concerned about the dry conditions throughout the forest and the occurrence of human caused fires,” said Forest Supervisor Mary Farnsworth. “We need the public’s help in preventing wildfire.” During this year’s fire season firefighters across the Idaho Panhandle National Forests have successfully suppressed one hundred percent of the 12 human caused and 42 lightning caused fires they have responded to. However, in these conditions it only takes one smoldering campfire or cigarette carelessly tossed out a window to cause the kind of devastating wildfires we have witnessed throughout the west this year. Campers, hunters, and those operating chainsaws for firewood gathering should be extra vigilant when it comes to preventing wildfire in these dry conditions. Information on how to make sure your campfire is “dead out” and other fire prevention tips can be found at www.smokeybear.com or by contacting your local Forest Service office. |