IDAHO, USA — Six counties in North Idaho have implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions that will be in place until further notice.
The restrictions will be in place in all Idaho Panhandle counties including Boundary, Bonner, Kootenai, Benewah, Shoshone and Latah. The restrictions are due to increased fire danger, according to the Idaho Department of Lands.
What is prohibited under the new restrictions?
- Building, maintaining attending or using a fire, campfire or stove
- Smoking in areas with flammable materials
- Driving motor vehicles off designated roads and trails
- Operating equipment powered by an internal combustion engine between the hours of 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.
- Welding or other activities that generate a flame between the hours of 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Are there any exceptions?
- Anyone with a permit that specifically authorizes any of the acts above
- Fires or stoves fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels
- Need for emergency repair of public utilities
- All land within a city boundary
Here are some tips to defend your land and home during fire season, according to the Fire Safe Council.
They advise to remove all flammable vegetation around structures on the property.
Trimming trees so branches are six feet off the ground and ten feet from a chimney will slow the chance of fire spreading. They also advise to remove dead trees from the property, cleaning up plant litter and watering properly.
For the inside of the home, they highlighted the importance of installing smoke detectors between living and sleeping areas. They also advise to keep a charged, ABC-type fire extinguisher in the kitchen and garage.