Hamilton, Montana — Just days after going to “Very High” fire danger, the Bitterroot National Forest announced today that it is raising its fire danger level to “Extreme” and will go into Stage 2 fire restrictions starting Friday, July 19, due to continued hot weather and record dry fuel conditions. Extreme is the highest fire danger level possible.  When fire danger is “Extreme,” fires start quickly, spread furiously, and burns intensely.  All fires are potentially serious and development into high intensity burning will be faster and occur even on smaller fires.  Direct attack – fire fighters using direct methods to suppress a fire – is rarely possible and may be dangerous except immediately after ignition. … Forest officials are asking the public to be especially careful when camping and visiting the forest.