KAMIAH, Idaho: March 14, 2024– The time of year is quickly approaching when spring burning is on the weekly chore list. With the need to keep our homes and properties maintained, be aware that the spring weather is becoming warmer and windier. Please be careful when burning on your property, as fire response resources are limited this time of year and response times may vary.
Jim Wimer, Fire Prevention Officer for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, states, “We cannot rely on the calendar anymore to tell us when wildfires may impact our lives. Our local fire officials continually monitor evolving fire conditions, and with that, they urge the public to always be cautious when working or recreating outdoors.”
As a reminder, here are a few tips and tricks to make sure that you are keeping yourself, your community, and property safe this spring:
- Follow all burn permit guidelines issues by Idaho Department of Lands and those that are specific to your location.
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- Idaho Department of Lands annually requires burn permits from May 10 through October 20: IDL Burn Permit Application.
- For areas within the Nez Perce Reservation, burn permits are required year-round for both burns smaller than ten feet in diameter, to those that are larger than ten feet in diameter: Tribal Burn Permits on the Nez Perce Reservations.
- For specific burn permit questions, please contact your local county/state officials for more information about the burn permit process and current fire conditions/restrictions.
- If you plan to have a campfire for any reason, be prepared to put it out quickly and fully.
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- Utilize pre-established, improved fire rings and pits, making sure they are cleared of combustible materials.
- Have a shovel, bucket, and water source or small fire extinguisher on-site and ready at all times.
- Make sure all fires are completely out and cool to the touch: If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
- Check local weather conditions/forecasts to ensure that spring burning can be accomplished in a safe and effective manner.
For more information, please contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest’s Fire Information Line at 208-935-6134.