Summer and fall are great seasons to get outside and enjoy everything Idaho has to offer, whether that means camping for the weekend, exploring backroads, or loading up the trailer for a road trip. But with rising temperatures and dry conditions, it’s important to stay mindful of the increased risk of fire.
Wildfires can start in an instant from something as simple as a campfire left unattended, a hot tailpipe over dry grass, or the improper use of fireworks. With a few simple safety habits, you can help protect your property, your community, and Idaho’s landscapes. Here are some key fire safety tips to help reduce risk during your summer adventures.
Campfires
Campfires provide warmth, light, and a place to gather after a day of hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing. However, in dry conditions, even a small fire can quickly become dangerous. That’s why it’s important to build and manage campfires with care, especially during fire season.
Before you build a campfire, take these precautions:
- Check for local fire restrictions. Fire danger levels can change rapidly based on temperature, wind, and moisture levels.
- Choose the right spot. Use a designated fire ring or pit when available. If there isn’t one, build your fire in a level, open area away from overhanging branches, dry grass, tents, or vehicles.
- Clear the area. Remove leaves, pine needles, brush, and other flammable material within a 10-foot radius of the fire site.
- Keep water and a shovel nearby. These tools can help you quickly control a fire if it starts to spread.
While the fire is burning:
- Never leave it unattended. Even a small breeze can blow sparks into nearby vegetation.
- Keep the fire small. A manageable flame is safer and easier to extinguish.
- Supervise children and pets closely around the fire.
When it’s time to put the fire out:
- Drown the fire with water, stir the ashes, and repeat. Keep adding water and stirring until everything is cool to the touch. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
- Don’t bury the fire. Embers can continue smoldering underground and reignite later.
If wind conditions are strong or the fire risk is elevated, it’s best to avoid building a fire altogether. There are plenty of alternatives that can provide everything you need for a comfortable night outside, without the added risk.
Vehicles and Trailers
Wildfires aren’t only started by open flames. Everyday equipment like cars, trucks, trailers, and even lawnmowers can accidentally ignite dry grass or brush if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Before you hit the road for a weekend adventure, keep the following tips in mind:
- Avoid parking on dry vegetation. A hot exhaust pipe or undercarriage can ignite grass or leaves in a matter of minutes.
- Secure trailer chains properly. Dragging chains or loose metal parts can create sparks. Cross chains underneath the hitch and make sure nothing is hanging or dragging.
- Check for fluid leaks and overheating. Oil or fuel leaks, faulty wiring, or overheated engines can all increase fire risk, especially in dry conditions.
- Perform regular maintenance. Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition not only keeps you safe on the road but helps prevent unintentional fire starts.
A quick inspection before you drive or tow, especially in grassy or wooded areas, can go a long way in protecting Idaho’s landscapes.
ATVs and Off-Road Vehicles
Exploring Idaho’s backcountry on an ATV or dirt bike is a great way to experience the outdoors, but off-road vehicles come with fire risks, especially in hot, dry conditions. Engines generate significant heat, and without the right precautions, that heat can ignite nearby vegetation.
Here’s how to stay safe while riding:
- Use a spark arrestor. These devices help prevent sparks from escaping the exhaust system and are often required on public lands.
- Stay on designated trails. Going off-trail increases the chances of driving through dry brush or grasses that can catch fire.
- Let your engine cool down before refueling or performing maintenance.
Just like with your vehicle, a few moments of preparation can help ensure your off-road adventures don’t come with unintended consequences.
Fireworks
Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate holidays, but in dry, fire-prone areas, they can pose serious risks. One stray spark is all it takes to ignite grass, brush, or trees, especially during peak wildfire season.
Before using fireworks, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Check local regulations. Many Idaho counties and cities restrict or ban fireworks during the summer. Always confirm the rules before you buy or light anything.
- Choose a safe location. Only use fireworks in open, cleared areas far from vegetation, structures, or vehicles.
- Be prepared to put out a fire. Keep a hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby in case something goes wrong.
- Dispose of used fireworks properly. Soak them in water before placing them in a metal trash can.
When in doubt, it’s safest to skip fireworks altogether, especially in rural or wooded areas. Alternatives like glow sticks, LED sparklers, or community displays can still bring the fun, without the fire danger.
Stay Protected
Staying safe during Idaho’s fire season starts with awareness and a little extra preparation. Whether you’re camping, driving to your favorite trailhead, or celebrating a holiday weekend, taking simple steps to prevent wildfires helps protect your family, your community, and the Idaho landscapes we all love.
It’s also a good time to review your insurance coverage. Make sure your home, property, and recreational vehicles are properly insured in case the unexpected happens. If you have questions about your policy or want to ensure you’re fully protected, your local Farm Bureau Insurance agent is here to help. Let’s work together to protect what matters most this season.
Disclaimer: The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts.
