By now, you’ve most likely noticed thick, hazy conditions in eastern Idaho skies. While the haze makes for fascinating photographic opportunities, most notably the bright red hue tinting the sun in the evenings, it makes for concern in other ways.
The smoke from sixteen large wildfires in northwest Idaho are sending a thick haze over Idaho Falls and other nearby communities in eastern Idaho. Currently, there are no fires burning nearby, but local emergency dispatchers have been receiving calls from residents concerning the smoke. Firefighters have been sent to some areas for smoke that was thought to be smoke from neighbors burning, but was actually smoke from the wildfires.
“We would like residents to not only be aware of the conditions but also encourage them to do their part to keep our community safe,” states Idaho Falls Fire Department Chief Dave Hanneman.
Wildfires are no present threat to any residents here, but current weather conditions are ideal for a fire to start and spread. The Idaho Falls Fire Department has the following tips for taking action around your home to decrease fire risk:
- Clear leaves and other vegetative debris from roofs, gutters, porches and decks. This helps prevent embers from igniting your home.
- Remove dead vegetation and other items from under your deck or porch, and within 10 feet of the house.
- Screen in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.
- Remove flammable materials (wood piles, propane tanks) within 30 feet of your home’s foundation and outbuildings, including garages and sheds. If it can catch fire, don’t let it touch your house, deck or porch.
- Wildfire can spread to tree tops. Prune trees so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
- Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.
- Don’t let debris and lawn cuttings linger. Dispose of these items quickly to reduce fuel for fire.
- Inspect shingles or roof tiles. Replace or repair the shingles that are loose or missing to prevent ember penetration.
- Cover exterior attic vents with metal wire mesh no larger than 1/8 inch to prevent sparks from entering the home.