Wildfire season ramps up in Idaho: Here's what officials say you should do now
May 27, 2026
As wildfire season ramps up across Idaho, emergency officials are urging residents to prepare now before a fire threatens their neighborhood.Idaho emergency agencies say one of the most important steps people can take is signing
up for local emergency alerts through their county sheriffs office or emergency management agency.RELATED | Idaho adopts the Ready, Set, Go! Wildfire Safety Program for Wildfire Awareness MonthThose alerts can send evacuation notices directly to residents phones during a wildfire.WATCH: How Idaho emergency officials recommend preparing now for wildfire evacuations Wildfire season ramps up in Idaho: What officials say you should do nowOfficials also recommend turning on wireless emergency alerts in phone settings and monitoring the Idaho Fire Map through the Idaho Department of Lands.Emergency managers say families should prepare a go-bag ahead of time rather than waiting until smoke is visible. Recommended items include important documents, medications, phone chargers, cash, water, extra clothes, and pet supplies.RELATED | Mountain Home fire under investigation as injured deputy recovers in hospitalOfficials also encourage Idahoans to plan multiple evacuation routes out of their neighborhoods, noting that wildfires can spread quickly and cell service may fail during emergencies.Authorities say residents should rely on local sheriffs, fire agencies, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, and the Idaho Department of Lands for trusted wildfire information and evacuation updates.Emergency officials say the best time to prepare for a wildfire is before one starts. More preparedness resources and emergency alert links can be found on Idaho News 6s website.WATCH: Everything you need to know regarding evacuation orders Evacuation order? Here's what you need to know
...read more
read less