Deputy Chief Jeff Sells outlines Kootenai County's wildland fire preparedness for 2025

Wildfire Preparedness Takes Center Stage at Coeur d'Alene City Council Meeting

The Coeur d'Alene City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, highlighted critical preparations for the upcoming wildland fire season, with Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Sells delivering a comprehensive outlook on fire risks and community safety measures.

Sells warned of a predicted increase in fire activity this summer due to ongoing drought conditions and below-average snowpack in the region. "Experts are predicting a higher than average fire activity this summer," he stated, emphasizing the importance of year-round preparation and collaboration among various agencies to combat potential wildfires.

The Deputy Chief presented a detailed map from the Kootenai County Office of Emergency Management, illustrating the wildland urban interface (WUI) areas within the city. These zones, marked in orange and yellow, indicate regions where residential areas are at risk from wildfires. Sells urged residents to take proactive measures, such as maintaining fire-resistant properties and adhering to burn restrictions, which will require permits starting May 10.

Community involvement was a key theme, with Sells noting that 80% of WUI fires are human-caused. He encouraged citizens to stay informed and prepared, highlighting resources like the Alert Kootenai notification system and the PulsePoint app, which alerts users to nearby emergencies, including wildfires.

The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between local fire departments and state agencies, with Sells detailing agreements that enhance resource sharing during emergencies. He concluded by stressing the importance of community preparedness, stating, "Our community is a force multiplier in preventing wildfires."

As the summer approaches, the city remains focused on ensuring safety and readiness for the challenges posed by wildfires, with ongoing efforts to educate and equip residents for potential emergencies.