Idaho Department of Fish and Game are asking residents to leave fireworks at home this year for the 4th of July.
The department is reminding Idahoans fireworks are banned on most public lands, including IDFG land. Federal forest and rangelands, state endowment lands and department-managed lands are all firework and explosive-free areas, according to IDFG.
Anyone planning to be outside for the holiday is advised to leave the fireworks at home due to restrictions and fire risk. The department suggests checking local municipal and government guidelines this year as many have banned fireworks due to the fire risk.
Related: Fireworks banned in majority of Ada County, residents encouraged to attend city display
“One person’s negligence can close down a large area for the year, destroying critical habitat for wildlife, recreational opportunities for sportsmen and sportswomen, and impact the livelihood of the property owners,” Sal Palazzolo, statewide Wildlife Habitat Manager for Idaho Fish and Game, said in a statement. “We are asking people to follow the rules and think before acting.”
IDFG asks residents to keep a few things in mind when heading to the Idaho backcountry:
- Leave fireworks home - fireworks are prohibited on most public lands
- Park vehicles on areas clear of vegetation
- Confine campfire to developed sites
- Be careful with campfires and make sure they are out before leaving or going to bed
- Check and make sure ATVs and motorcycles have spark arresters that are in good working order
- Cigarettes and other smoking materials should be extinguished in appropriate disposal places and not thrown out of vehicle windows
