08/10/2022
We are in a high fire danger. Be cautious with campfires.
With Fire Danger rated at High to Very High across the Idaho Panhandle, this is a great time to refresh on those terms. Although there are currently no campfire restrictions on public lands across the Coeur d Alene dispatch zone (essentially the 5 northern counties of ID), care should always be taken with fire. As you can see in the definitions below, fires can start while in any Fire Danger rating.
As you head into the forest, chances are you've seen Smokey Bear with a Fire Danger sign. This warning lets you know how likely a fire incident is based on several factors. This assessment is made on a rolling basis at research stations and fire districts across the country, taking into account current and antecedent weather, fuel types, and both live and dead fuel moisture.
So, what do the levels mean for you?
🔥Low: Fuels do not ignite easily from small embers. A more intense heat source, such as lightning, may start fires in duff or dry rotten wood. Fires in open, dry grasslands may burn easily a few hours after a rain, but most wood fires will spread slowly, creeping or smoldering. Control of fires is generally easy.
🔥🔥Moderate: Fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually pretty low. If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately. Average fire intensity will be moderate except in heavy concentrations of fuel, which may burn hot. Fires are still not likely to become serious and are often easy to control.
🔥🔥🔥High: Fires can start easily from most causes and small fuels (such as grasses and needles) will ignite readily. Unattended campfires and brush fires are likely to escape. Fires will spread easily, with some areas of high-intensity burning on slopes or concentrated fuels. Fires can become serious and difficult to control unless they are put out while they are still small.
🔥🔥🔥🔥Very High: Fires will start easily from most causes. The fires will spread rapidly and have a quick increase in intensity, right after ignition. Small fires can quickly become large fires and exhibit extreme fire intensity, such as long-distance spotting and fire whirls. These fires can be difficult to control and will often become much larger and longer-lasting fires.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥Extreme: Fires of all types start quickly and burn intensely. All fires are potentially serious and can spread very quickly with intense burning. Small fires become big fires much faster than at the "very high" level. Spot fires are probable, with long-distance spotting likely. These fires are very difficult to fight and may become very dangerous and often last for several days.
Keep an eye out for the current Fire Danger Level and act accordingly!
📷 Priest Lake Ranger Station Fire Danger
Matt Garcia, US Forest Service
