Pocatello City implements burn ban to address wildfire risks and fireworks safety

Pocatello officials are taking proactive measures to combat the growing threat of wildfires, announcing a burn ban set to take effect on July 1. This decision comes in response to an extended fire season that now stretches from April through October, a significant shift from the traditional July to September timeframe.

During the Pocatello City Council Town Hall meeting on June 25, city leaders highlighted the increasing risks associated with wildfires, particularly in areas where urban development meets wildland. Assistant Chief Dean Bullock of the Pocatello Fire Department emphasized the dangers posed by wildfires, referencing recent catastrophic events like the Marshall Fire in Colorado, which destroyed over a thousand homes and caused billions in damages. He noted that Pocatello's landscape, with its mix of residential and commercial properties, mirrors those vulnerable communities.

The upcoming burn ban will restrict open burning in the wildland-urban interface, primarily affecting the city's benches, from July 1 until October 1 or until conditions improve. This measure aims to minimize fire risks during peak fire weather, characterized by high winds and low humidity, which have become increasingly common in the region.

City officials also discussed the importance of adhering to fire codes and restrictions, particularly concerning the use of fireworks. Last year, the fire department confiscated illegal fireworks valued between $8,000 to $10,000, underscoring the need for public compliance to ensure community safety.

As Pocatello prepares for a longer fire season, residents are urged to stay informed about fire risks and adhere to safety regulations to protect their homes and neighborhoods.