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'Know Before You Go' this Fourth of July |
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June 27, 2017 |
As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, the
Idaho Panhandle National Forests reminds
visitors that fireworks are prohibited on all
National Forest System lands; however, there are
many other activities that people can do while
visiting the 2.5 million acre forest.
“There are all sorts of ways to enjoy the
Forest: camping, hiking, mountain biking,
4-wheel driving, horseback riding, fishing, to
name just a few,” said Shoshana Cooper, public
affairs officer. “We encourage people to get
their families outside and enjoy their national
forest this holiday weekend; we just want them
to be aware of the rules that are in place to
keep us all safe.”
Before you head outside to play, here are a few
general tips for a fun and safe recreational
experience!
* Always check weather conditions before heading out to the forest. Carry
enough water, food, extra clothes and gear that
you may need.
* Make sure to have a forest map and tell someone where you plan to be!
* Fireworks—and the possession of fireworks—are prohibited on National
Forest System lands; instead, folks are
encouraged to attend community-hosted events for
Fourth of July activities.
* Visitors to the forest are asked to be very careful with fire. If
camping, be sure to pack a shovel and a bucket
for extinguishing your campfire. Please practice
good sense by using caution with fire and
smoking at all times, and in all places. Never
leave your campfire unattended, and before
leaving your campsite, douse the fire with
water, stir, and check your campfire for heat
with your bare hand. ALL fires must be DEAD OUT
when left unattended and before leaving the
site.
* Be aware of your surroundings while in the forest. Watch out for
wildlife and be sure to give them plenty of
space. Place tents and park vehicles in areas
where trees cannot fall on them. Store food in
hard-sided vehicles or bear-proof containers.
For more information, read the forest’s Food
Storage Requirements web page. Proper food
storage is required if you’re recreating on
national forest system lands north of the Clark
Fork, Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille
River.
* Please stay on designated routes, and obtain the appropriate travel
maps before you go. Obey all off-highway
motorized travel laws and regulations when
exploring the forest on ATVs or other OHV
equipment. Visitors should carry the FREE
Motorized Vehicle Use Maps, available at any of
our offices.
* Remember to pack out your garbage and clean up your site before you
leave.
Although our offices will be open on Monday,
July 3 and Wednesday, July 5, they will be
closed on Tuesday, July 4. For more information
on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, please
visit our website at
https://www.fs.usda.gov/ipnf/. |
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