DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI) — Teton County Fire and Rescue is urging residents to exercise extreme caution this wildfire season after a group of juveniles lighting fireworks sparked a fast-moving grass fire on the outskirts of Driggs Friday morning.
The emergency call came in around 11:20 a.m., May 15th, at the same time TCFR received an alert from two PANO AI wildfire detection cameras atop Fred’s Mountain and Relay Ridge. The fire was located near South Bates Road and Highway 33.
Thanks to the early warning, a crew of seven firefighters arrived within minutes and successfully knocked down the forward progress of the flames before they could spread out of control. The subsequent investigation determined that a group of juveniles had started the fire.
Following the incident, the department took to Facebook to issue a stern reminder about fire safety as summer approaches, highlighting how quickly resources can be stretched thin.
“Tell your kids fireworks are bad on dry/windy days…It is still really dry, and we all need to be smart this summer when working or playing outdoors,” states the post.
TCFR also emphasized that only around 6-7 firefighters protect a large area and around 1,400 residents, highlighting the need for community cooperation when preventing wildfires.
“We need people to use common sense, be safe, and help us help you,” states the post.
