(Coeur d'Alene) Hunting, fishing, cutting firewood, and riding ATVs are Idaho traditions, and the cooler fall weather makes these activities more enjoyable.  Don’t be caught off-guard, while fire restrictions have been lifted in many areas, the fire danger is still high across Idaho and fuels are dry from the drought conditions.

“Idahoans love their fall outdoor activities, that’s part of what makes living in Idaho so great,” said IDL Director Dustin Miller. “With the current fire conditions we face, it is more important than ever that we take extra precautions out in the woods and rangelands to protect against devastating wildfires.”

Here are a few tips to make your adventures safer:

• Build your campfire in an open location and far from flammables.
• Select a flat, open location away from flammable materials such as logs, brush or dead leaves and needles.
• Scrape away grass, leaves and needles down to the mineral soil.
• Cut wood in short lengths, pile it within the cleared area and then light the fire.
• Stay with your fire.
• Extinguish it completely before leaving by dousing it with water until it is cold to the touch
• Do not park vehicles or Off-highway vehicles (OHV) over tall, dry grasses
• Regularly maintain your equipment and vehicle. Make sure:
• tires are not worn,
• bearings and axles are greased,
• safety chains are secured and not dragging on the ground.
• Make sure spark arrestors on OHVs and equipment like chainsaws are working properly.
• Avoid any activities that involve fire or sparks when it’s hot, dry and windy.

“Sportsmen value opportunities to hunt, trap and fish in Idaho forests,” said Benn Brocksome, Executive Director of Idaho Sportsmen. “It’s important we join together and take extra steps to prevent wildfire in Idaho when using campfires, and equipment. We want to protect access and opportunity in Idaho, and we can do that by protecting the land and wildlife for generations to come.”

For up to date information on fire restrictions please visit the IDL Fire Restriction Finder webpage at: https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/fire-restrictions-finder/.