Fire officials urge safety during coming days

As the Fourth of July approaches, local and state agencies are urging the public to celebrate safely—especially in fire-prone areas like North Idaho. 

Every year, thousands trade city life for the great outdoors, flocking to North Idaho’s millions of acres of National Forest. While these forests offer a peaceful escape, they also pose serious wildfire risks if safety guidelines aren’t followed. 

According to the USFS, human activity causes nine out of ten wildfires. To help prevent them, the agency will increase patrols and engage with outdoor recreators throughout the holiday. 

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) enforces strict summer regulations, particularly around fireworks and explosives. 

“The biggest thing we’re pushing is fireworks—no fireworks are allowed inside the National Forest,” said USFS Fire Prevention Officer Jason Cirksena. “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.” 

Fireworks, exploding targets, and pyrotechnic devices like Tannerite are strictly prohibited in National Forests, regardless of local laws or weather conditions. 

Campfires and motorized vehicles are also common wildfire triggers. The USFS advises that all vehicles—including ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes—be properly maintained and lubricated before use on forest lands. Unattended or improperly extinguished campfires remain a major hazard. 

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

For those celebrating at home, fire safety is just as critical. 

Shoshone County Fire Protection District #1 Captain John Miller hopes residents will stick to Idaho’s “safe and sane” fireworks laws.  

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2024, there were 11 reported deaths, 14,700 injuries, and an estimated $109 million in property damage due to fireworks. 

While there are no guarantees with fireworks, Miller offered several safety tips: 

- Use only legal fireworks 

- Store fireworks out of children’s reach 

- Follow label directions 

- Keep pets indoors 

- Always have water nearby 

- Let fireworks burn out, cool, and soak them before disposal 

Barbecues are another overlooked summer hazard. Miller has responded to numerous fires caused by unattended or misused grills. His advice: 

- Keep grills at least 10 feet from structures 

- Check for gas leaks 

- Never grill in a garage 

- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby 

Finally, Miller urged the public to avoid overloading emergency services during the holiday. 

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

He emphasized that barking dogs, noise complaints, and firework debris do not constitute emergencies.