Fire danger very high

So far, Idaho and Elmore County in particular have been lucky during Idaho's "fifth season" -- the fire season.

The lack of storms with lightning and increased vigilance by citizens has helped limit the number of range and forest fires to only a small handful so far.

But the potential for disaster is out there, and one tiny spark is all that is needed to ignite the tons of drying grasses and foliage per acre that are just waiting to explode.

So, as we enter the second half of summer and the height of the fire season, let's all remember to be extra careful when we're traveling on the desert or in the forests. Remember, if you start a fire you could be held financially responsible for the costs of putting it out. So besides destroying valuable wildlands, you would be wiping out your pocket book as well.

If you are camping or recreating in the mountains or desert, make concern for fire one of your highest priorities.

We've already got enough smoke from California. We don't need any more from our home state and county.

-- Kelly Everitt