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Safety and Outdoor Ethics

National Forests offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. While exploring these beautiful landscapes, it’s important to stay aware of potential hazards. 

Below, you’ll find tips and information to help you enjoy the outdoors safely.

Only You Can Prevent Wildfires

Smokey Bear statue and sign

Learn more about fire restrictions, burn bans, basic campfire safety, and how to make your home firesafe.

North Idaho Prescribed Fire Information

A firefighter carrying a handheld drip torch ignites dead wood on a hillside in the forest

Prescribed fire is used to provide a variety of benefits which include the reduced risk of high-intensity wildfire and improved forest health. 

Keep Mountain Goats Wild

Mountain goats atop Scotchman Peak

Scotchman Peak mountain goats are iconic. They're also best viewed from a distance.

Safety in Bear Country

A grizzly bear

A food storage order requires food storage practices on portions of the national forest to reduce the potential for human - wildlife conflicts.

Identifying and Avoiding Dangerous Trees

Rotten hazard tree on ground at campground

It is critical forest visitors understand that hazardous trees may be present anywhere on the national forest

Abandoned Mines

Unidentified mine shaft

An important part of the Minerals & Geology Management mission is the restoration of land disturbed by historic mining activities. The Forest Service seeks to minimize the human health and safety hazards at abandoned mines, while preserving the historic and wildlife habitat resources they provide.

Avalanche Awareness

A snow-covered mountain peak

Avalanche advisories are updated weekly in winter, plus information on avalanche awareness classes, and other reference materials.

Guarding Against Giardia

a mountain lake

Backcountry streams and lakes, although clear and clean in appearance, often harbor a hidden danger. 

Traveling Forest Roads

A forested road climbing into the mountains on a wet day

Traveling your national forest roads can be fun! It can also be dangerous! Here are some things to consider when traveling national forest roads.

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace logo

Leave No Trace is an environmental philosophy that promotes responsible outdoor ethics to minimize human impact on nature. Let's protect and enjoy our natural world together!

Last updated March 27, 2026