GOVERNOR DECLARES STATEWIDE
WILDFIRE EMERGENCY

(BOISE) – With more counties across Idaho affected by wildfires almost daily, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter issued a statewide “disaster emergency” declaration today.

The declaration came at the request of the state Bureau of Homeland Security, which cited the growing risk to life and property as a result of uncontrolled wildfires. The state of disaster will remain in place for 30 days unless terminated, changed or extended for another 30-day period.

The declaration authorizes the use of state government resources to assist in efforts to respond to wildfire threats where they occur anywhere in Idaho. It will enable state officials to more efficiently provide and coordinate logistical support where it is most needed throughout the state.

Meanwhile, up to three dozen Idaho Air National Guard personnel were dispatched today to assist Blaine County authorities at four traffic control points. Governor Otter authorized Blaine County officials on Sunday to use their discretion in ordering evacuations from a wildfire-threatened area along Warm Springs Road west of Gates.

“We still have a lot of fire season ahead of us, and I want local and state folks to have all the help they need in protecting lives and property,” Governor Otter said. “Wildfires might not be close at hand for all of us, but we all have a stake in protecting our fellow Idahoans from the threat.”

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