Area agencies encourage Fourth of July safety

Firework season is upon us, and many local and state agencies are hoping that people stay safe as they celebrate the Fourth of July.  

Each year during the Fourth of July, thousands of people ditch city living in favor of camping. North Idaho boasts millions of acres of National Forest, which provides the perfect getaway spots for those seeking the simple life. It also provides plenty of risks for wildfires if people don’t follow safety guidelines. 

The United States Forest Service has strict rules for campers during the summer months, especially regarding fireworks or other explosives.  

“The biggest thing we’re pushing is fireworks, no fireworks are allowed inside the National Forest,” USFS Fire Prevention Officer Jason Cirksena said. “And as far as campfires go, be prepared. Keep a shovel, hand tool, or bucket available. And remember, if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.”   

According to the USFS, possession or use of fireworks is entirely prohibited in National Forests, regardless of weather conditions or county fireworks rules. Exploding targets and other pyrotechnic devices, such as Tannerite, are also prohibited on National Forests. 

Campfires and motorized vehicles are also potential wildfire starters, so campers are asked to ensure that all motorized vehicles, including ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes should all be well-maintained and lubricated before use inside any National Forest lands. Unattended campfires, or campfires that are not completely put out are a danger to forest lands and people.  

“It is their public lands,” Cirksena said, “we just ask that they are responsible and respectful when they’re using it.”  

According to statistics from the USFS, nine out of every ten wildfires are caused by humans.  

The USFS will have additional patrol throughout the forest in the coming days, stopping and interacting with the public when they come across outdoor recreators.     

For those people who are staying home during the holiday, fire safety and responsibility doesn’t just affect you, but also your neighbors.  

Shoshone County Fire Protection District #1 Captain John Miller hopes that Shoshone County will stay safely within Idaho’s safe and sane laws.  

According to Miller, in 2021 (the most recent data), nearly 13,000 house fires from fireworks were reported across the United States resulting in almost $60 million in property damage.  

There are never any guarantees with fireworks, but Miller did point out a few tips that will keep people safe when they celebrate.  

Use only legal fireworks; Store fireworks out of reach of children; Always follow label directions; Keep pets indoors; Always have water handy; Let fireworks completely burn out, cool down, and drown them in water before disposing of them.  

Another risk that people tend to overlook during the summer season is their barbecues. Miller has seen his fair share of fires that were started by irresponsible or unattended grills. Grills should be kept at least 10 feet away from homes or structures; Always check your grills for any gas leaks; Don’t grill inside your garage; Keep a fire extinguisher near your grill. 

Miller also asks the public to be mindful of not overloading the 9-1-1 system during the holidays and only calling emergency services when an actual emergency is occurring. 

"Our staffing isn't at the same level as many other communities and we'll probably be spread pretty thin as it is," Miller said.

Barking dogs, noise, fireworks, and firework debris in your yard do not constitute emergencies, according to Miller.