Spread by wind, small fire grows to more than an acre

BONNERS FERRY — A small fire became out of control on McArthur Lake Road on Friday, May 3, at 10:40 a.m.

According to South Boundary Fire Chief Tony Rohrwasser, wind was a contributing factor in the fire growing to about one and a half acres before being contained. The fire had spread through the grass and was approaching structures and a neighboring property.

South Boundary Fire responded to the call along with Automatic Aid partnering agencies, North Bench Fire, Paradise Valley Fire, and Boundary Ambulance. They were able to quickly get the fire under control with a wet control line. Idaho Department of Lands sent crews from Boundary County and Bonner County who reinforced the line around the perimeter of the fire.

“Despite the efforts of the homeowner to keep the burn to a small area, wind was a contributing factor in the fire getting out of control,” said Rohrwasser. “It seems at this time of year we face many out of control fires from homeowners trying to beat the May 10 date when permits become required.”

Rohrwasser wants to remind people that there is no cost for a burn permit and they are simple to obtain by either going into Idaho Department of Lands, or by searching for Idaho Burn Permits online. The permit will require there to be a water supply, but not having that is why many fires get out of control.

“So far this year we have been pretty lucky,” said Rohrwasser. “Please be careful if you are burning, check weather conditions, winds, and make sure you burn safely. Always contact your local fire agency and the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office to notify them of your burning plans.”