By Reader Staff
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests is reminding visitors that fireworks, and the possession of fireworks, are prohibited on National Forest System lands, regardless of weather conditions or holidays. Exploding targets and other pyrotechnic devices, such as Tannerite, are also prohibited on public lands administered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
For a safe recreational experience this Fourth of July, here are a few additional tips:
• Visitors to the forest are asked to be very careful with fire. If camping, be sure to pack a shovel and a bucket for extinguishing your campfire. Practice good sense by using caution with fire and smoking at all times, and in all places. Never leave your campfire unattended and, before leaving your campsite, douse the fire with water, stir and check your campfire for heat with your bare hand. All fires must be “dead out” when left unattended and before leaving the site.
• When camping, store food in hard-sided vehicles or bear-proof containers. The Bonners Ferry, Priest Lake and portions of the Sandpoint ranger districts all have food storage requirements in place. For more information, read the Forest’s Food Storage Order at fs.usda.gov/main/ipnf/home.
• Stay on designated motorized routes. Visitors should carry a Motor Vehicle Use Map, available for free at any IPNF offices, and observe all off-highway motorized travel laws and regulations when exploring the forest on motorized equipment.
• Pack out your garbage and clean up your site before you leave.
For more information on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, contact your local ranger station.
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Coming up this week! Don’t miss Festivus, Skiing with Santa, Hogwire, and more! See the full list of events in the 
