Know Before You Go this Fourth of July!
COEUR d’ALENE – As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests would like to remind visitors that fireworks are prohibited on all National Forest System lands; however, there are many other activities that people can do on the 2.5 million acre Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
“There are many ways to enjoy the Forest such as camping, hiking, mountain biking, OHV driving, bird watching, fishing, to name just a few,” Forest Supervisor Jeanne Higgins said. “While we encourage people to get outside and enjoy their public lands this holiday, we want them to be aware of the rules that are in place to keep us all safe.”
Before you head outside to enjoy your public lands, here are a few 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 while in the forest!
- Fireworks — and the possession of fireworks — are prohibited on National Forest System lands, regardless of weather conditions or holidays. Instead, folks are encouraged to attend community-hosted events for Fourth of July activities. Exploding targets and other pyrotechnic devices are also prohibited on public lands administered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
- 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.
- 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 motorized equipment. Visitors should carry a Motorized Vehicle Use Map, available for FREE at any of our offices.
- Store food in hard-sided vehicles or bear-proof containers. he Bonners Ferry, Priest Lake, and portions of the Sandpoint Ranger District all have food storage requirements in place. For more information, read the forest’s Food Storage Order on our Web page.
- Remember to pack out your garbage and clean up your site before you leave.
IPNF offices will be closed on Wednesday, July 4 but will be open on Tuesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 5. For more information on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, visit www.fs.usda.gov/main/ipnf/home.