Pocatello to enforce ban on certain fires

The Pocatello Fire Department will enforce a ban on certain types of fires beginning Friday in parts of the city.

Due to high fire danger and fuel moisture levels, all open burning of solid fuels, like wood, paper, or charcoal within the Wildland-Urban Interface areas will be put on hold.

Natural gas or propane-supplied fire appliances designed for cooking and heating, as well as recreational fires fueld by natural gas or propane are allowed.

The ban will remain in place until October 1 or until lifted by the Pocatello Fire Department.

All fireworks are also prohibited in the Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.

“All it takes is one stray ember or errant firework to ignite a dangerous, unpredictable and potentially catastrophic wildfire,” says Chief David Gates. “I would like to personally appeal to the residents of Pocatello to take it upon themselves to respect the ban and potentially save the homes and lives of their fellow citizens.”

You may find a map of the interface area here.