Fire conditions

JEROME - After one of the hottest and dry summers on record in most of the state, The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is asking hunters to be extremely cautious this hunting season. "The Forest Service has reported to us that fire conditions are extremely volatile out there," said Kelton Hatch, Regional Conservation Educator. "Hunters need to adhere to the rules and think before acting. If someone starts a fire out there, the person responsible could be held liable for the cost of putting out the fire, loss of resources and be arrested and fined." "We will have thousands of people out and pursuing game animals this season," Hatch said. "All it takes is one misguided step from one sportsman to close down a whole area for the season or until snow flies." When hunters head out to the field, here are a few ideas to keep in mind. - Park vehicles on areas clear of vegetation - Make sure cigarettes are out - Campfires are currently banned on Forest Service lands - Check and make sure ATVs and motorcycles have spark arresters that are in good working order To stay current on closers and other Forest Service access issues, go to the Fish and Game website at http://www2.state.id.us/fishgame/index.htm. Click on news, new additions and then alerts or contact your local US Forest Service office.