Open burning closed in Kootenai County

The Kootenai County Fire Chiefs Association closed open burning effective Friday, July 29, 2016. All active burn permits will be allowed to expire on the date indicated on the permit.

“The hot dry weather we have experienced the past two weeks has dried out forest fuels and made them very receptive to ignition from various sources,” said a press release. “Once started, a fire will spread rapidly in these conditions.”

Recreational fires are still allowed but the Kootenai County Fire Prevention Co-op along with the KCFCA would like to remind everyone to be safe maintaining a campfire. Make sure all precautions are taken and that access to water and tools is within the immediate area. Also, make sure the campfire is extinguished before leaving or going indoors. If you have questions, please contact your local fire department.