Highway 33 fire blamed on boat trailer

Investigators have determined the Highway 33 Fire, which began on the morning of July 12, was caused by the dragging wheel of a boat trailer.

The wheel started about 19 small fires along Highway 33 from milepost 2 to milepost 11. In all, about 77 acres of BLM and Idaho National Laboratory land.

“As you pack up to travel, take a few moments to reduce the chance of igniting sparks along the way,” said Fire Management Officer Joel Gosswiller, “by inspecting your vehicle and trailer for dragging metal and performing regular maintenance.”

He encouraged motorists to make sure all parts of their vehicle are secure and not dragging on the road. A loose safety chain or muffler can send a shower of sparks into dry vegetation.

Check tire pressure and look for indications of wear and tear. An exposed tire rim can throw off sparks and poorly lubricated wheel bearings can overheat and ignite. Hot brakes can also drop material into the grass.

Dirty exhaust systems and spark arresters can collect debris and ignite a spark. Worn out catalytic converters or faulty spark arrestors can shed off hot metal.

Owners of off-road vehicles should equip them with spark arrestors and stay on established roads when conditions are hot and dry.

Leaking oil and transmission fluid are highly flammable.

And BLM reminds all motorists to make sure they have a fire extinguisher on hand.