Fires near Troy continue to burn

Effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, the closure orders from the Kootenai National Forest related to the Teepee Mountain fire near Troy were all lifted by the United States Forest Service. The decision was prompted by cooler temperatures and increased precipitation in the area.

“With the recent moisture and cooler temperatures experienced on the forest within the last few days, fire officials have decided to lift the closure order on the Teepee Mountain fire as of Friday, Oct. 23 at 0001 a.m.,” Forest Service public affairs officer Willie Sykes wrote in a Tuesday press release.

The closure orders surrounding the Sawtooth fire are expected to remain in place through the winter months, due to the danger posed by weakened trees in the forest.

“The Sawtooth fire closure order is still in effect and will probably be until next spring depending upon weather and/or fire conditions,” Sykes wrote. “However, it is important to remember that these fires will likely burn and emit some smoke until significant rain or snow is received.”

Sykes also cautioned hikers and other forest visitors about the dangers created from the fire season and the potential for more damage if people aren’t careful.

“As a result of the fires and windy conditions, some trees and snags have weakened and pose a danger to forest visitors in the vicinity of the fires,” Sykes wrote. “Forest officials would like to remind forest visitors to be careful in the fire area and watch out for any hazards within the fire perimeter. Although open burning is in effect, it is a good reminder to hunters and other outdoor recreationists to use caution when starting any type of fire and make sure all warming fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.”