Fire Danger in Island Park

The 4^th of July holiday is the most active week of the year in Island Park.  Visitors have the opportunity to explore the greater Yellowstone ecosystem of Island Park without many of the limitations of the national park. Forest fires present one of the greatest dangers that accompany this increased activity.

The desire to enjoy a campfire and the tradition of lighting fireworks on the 4^th are a deadly combination as the vegetation dries out in the rising temperatures.

Island Park is part of the Targhee National Forest and is subject to the rules of the US Forest Service. The lighting of all private fireworks is forbidden in national forests, and that includes the City of Island Park. One errant sparkler could devastate the entire area and leave hundreds of people homeless.

Larry Johnson, Island Park’s volunteer Fire Chief also expressed concern for the campfires and fire pits that are prevalent throughout the area. A small gust of wind can blow an ember from the fire into nearby trees and have the same devastating effects.

Here are a couple of rules for safely enjoying your fire:

1.          Use a fire ring of metal or rock and clear all flammable material in a radius of ten feet around the ring.

2.          Always have a hose (on) or a bucket of water and shovel near the fire.

3.          Never leave your fire unattended unless you cover it with a fine mesh screen, preventing embers from being carried by the wind.

4.          Do not drop paper or cardboard on top of an active fire. The heat will carry the burning paper into the trees.

5.          If a wind begins to blow your flames sideways, put out the fire.

6.          When your night’s activities have concluded, put out your fire before leaving. Pour water on the fire, stir the ashes with your shovel and add more water.

Have a great vacation and help us protect nature’s gift.