Bonner, Boundary County firefighters extinguish brush fire near Samuels
Responders work to eliminate lingering hotspots after knocking down a small brush fire in northern Bonner County Friday.
Photo courtesy NORTHSIDE FIRE DISTRICT
Local firefighters put out a small brush fire in northern Bonner County near Samuels on Friday after hearing reports of an uncontrolled slash pile blaze that was spreading into a wooded area.
The incident occurred at about 1:20 p.m.; Northside Fire District personnel arrived at the 800 block of Upper Pack River Road to discover an approximately 100 feet by 200 feet (0.45 acre) wildfire that was spreading at a moderate pace.
South Boundary Fire Protection District, Selkirk Fire, Rescue & EMS and the Idaho Department of Lands also responded, and firefighters were able to contain the fire quickly. Afterward, responders put out lingering hotspots and cut a fireline to ensure the fire was properly extinguished.
Both Northside and Selkirk expressed appreciation for the agreements in place that allow local fire agencies to collaborate when an incident needs extra attention.
“Our automatic and mutual aid plans are absolutely essential to the success of all the local fire districts,” Selkirk personnel said in a Facebook post. “It allows us to provide the best service to our communities.”
The Idaho Department of Lands advises residents to check the weather forecast and see if they need a permit before initiating a controlled burn.
The department recommends keeping slash piles tall, tight and dirt-free to ensure the fuel burns completely and doesn’t leave any lingering coals that could cause reignition.