Fire Danger upgraded to Very High

CATALDO — The Shoshone County Fire Chiefs Association, which includes members from all local fire departments and wildland fire agencies, have determined it is time to move the fire danger to VERY HIGH for the local area.

With this announcement, outdoor burning is no longer allowed and burn permits will not be issued.

Sensible campfires are still allowed, but they must be kept to a reasonable size and extinguished completely if not attended.

Campfires left unattended to smolder are still potentially dangerous. A shovel and bucket are required on site when you have a campfire and will help to put your fire completely out.

High summer temperatures and a lack of significant rainfall have left forest fuels vulnerable to wildfire.

Although no large wildfires have manifested in our region this season, it only takes a small brush fire to grown rapidly and burn intensely even in seemingly green fuels.

In these conditions, fires can start from a variety of unusual heat sources.

The association encourage residents to be vigilant when traveling in the area and make sure that their vehicles, trailers and fire extinguishers are in good working condition.

As you enjoy the outdoors, please be on the lookout for smoke and report all wildfires to 911 immediately.

For additional information or questions about permits, please contact your local fire district:

Shoshone County FD#1: 208-752-1101

Shoshone County FD#2: 208-784-1188

US Forest Service: 208-783-2100

Idaho Department of Lands- Cataldo: 208-682-4611