Fire Danger moves to Moderate

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 Moderate for the local area; effective June 4. Permits for large and medium slash piles will not be offered until the fall.

Small permitted burn types, including residential yard waste, are still allowed but as our conditions are changing quickly we ask the residents to please be extra vigilant and always monitor your small pile until it is dead out.

With Independence Day fast approaching, we want to remind the public to be careful with their campfires and fireworks. To have a safe holiday, please follow these rules:

Ensure all campfires are kept to a reasonable size and extinguished completely if not attended. Campfires left unattended to smolder are still potentially dangerous. A shovel and bucket of water are required and will help to put your fire completely out.

Fireworks, of any type, are NOT allowed on any forested land (private, industrial, state or federal) in Idaho during closed fire season, May 10 through Oct. 20, as per Idaho Code, 38-117.

Fireworks that shoot into the air are ILLEGAL and especially dangerous. Use only “non- aerial common fireworks.” As defined by Idaho Code 39-2602; “Non-aerial common fireworks" means any fireworks such as ground spinners, fountains, sparklers, smoke devices or snakes designed to remain on or near the ground and not to travel outside a 15-foot diameter circle or emit sparks or other burning material which land outside a 20-foot diameter circle or above a height of 20 feet. Non-aerial common fireworks do not include firecrackers, jumping jacks or similar products.

If you choose to use fireworks, make sure you use them in a safe area. Children should not be allowed to handle any fireworks without the supervision of an adult. Parents, guardians or other persons having custody or control of a minor shall be liable for damage caused by the use of fireworks by the minor.

Please be kind to your neighbors and remember fireworks can be stressful to our pets and animals. Be careful and have a safe holiday.

For additional information or questions about permits, please contact your local fire district, at the phone numbers below:

• Shoshone County Fire District No. 1: 208-752-1101

• Shoshone County Fire District No. 2: 208-784-1188

• Prichard/Murray VFD: 208-682-3957

• U.S. Forest Service Smelterville: 208-783-2100

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