(Idaho Department of Lands Press Release, November 6, 2026)
Boise, ID — Hunters, please extinguish your warming fires! Chilly nights and early mornings can make warming fires appealing during hunting season. However, Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) firefighters have responded to a number of abandoned warming fires that spread into the wildland, causing small fires while hunters were away.
Even when temperatures are cooler and overnight moisture makes conditions seem less hazardous, dry grasses and underbrush can still ignite and spread fire.
Before going to bed or leaving the camp for a hunt, make sure your warming fire is completely out. Follow these steps:
- Let the fire burn down
- Drown it thoroughly with water
- Stir the ashes, coals and dirt
- Drown it again
- Feel for heat
- Repeat until everything is cold to the touch
A special thanks to those who have come across the fires and reported them.
IDL firefighters appreciate your help preventing wildfires and wish everyone a safe and successful hunting season.
