The Idaho Panhandle National Forest is reminding boaters and swimmers to get out of the way. Lakes are often used to refill planes and helicopters for firefighting efforts. With more thunderstorms possible this holiday weekend, the chance of more wildfires rises.
They say you should always yield to emergency traffic, and that includes on waterways. If you’re in the way, they can’t refill, bringing necessary water to fires. They suggest that if you see aircraft approach, quickly get to the shore and stay out of the center of the lake. They also warn that large aircraft can cause a considerable wake.
Cole Williamson caught this tanker refilling in the Snake River near Asotin recently.
