Fires ignite in Bonner County

SANDPOINT — Fire crews were mopping up two fires in Bonner County on Monday that authorities suspect were caused by humans.

"We've had no lightning in weeks," Idaho Department of Lands Supervisor Ed Robinson explained the suspicion. The fires remain under investigation.

The Prater Blue Fire, located 8 miles north of Laclede, was reported Sunday and was contained at 2 acres.

The Blanchard 13 fire, located 6 miles southwest of Blanchard, was also contained at approximately 2 acres. It was reported early Monday morning.

The U.S. Forest Service extinguished two unattended campfires up Grouse Creek on Sunday as well.

Fire danger remains high, and both agencies are asking everyone to follow proper precautions with campfires and smoking.

Before the fires, approximately 11.75 acres had burned so far this year.

Idaho Department of Lands has had 7 fires caused by humans and six lightning-caused fires and a total of 3.6 acres burned this year prior to the last two fires.

Temperatures and fire risk remain high, with forecasts of possible lighting throughout the week, according to the National Weather Service.

The Forest Service is urging the public to be careful during high fire danger.

If you smoke, safety requires you do it in at least a 3-foot clearing. Grind out your cigarette, cigar or pipe tobacco in the dirt, never on a stump or log. It is unsafe to smoke while walking, or riding a horse or trail bike. Use your ashtray while in your car.

Build your campfire away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps, logs, dry grass and leaves. Pile any extra wood away from the fire and keep plenty of water handy. Have a shovel nearby for throwing dirt on the fire if it gets out of control. Never leave a campfire unattended. Even a small breeze could cause the fire to quickly spread.

When you put out your campfire, drown it with water, making sure all embers, coals and sticks are wet. Move rocks to expose possible embers burning underneath. Stir the remains, add more water and stir again. If you do not have water use dirt, continuing to add and stir material until it is cool to your bare hand. Do not bury the coals, they can smolder and cause a fire.