State officials ask Utahns to curb fireworks over 4th of July holiday
In response to a deadly string of wildfires across Utah in recent weeks, state officials have announced a statewide ban on most fireworks over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Governor Spencer Cox said the move is aimed at reducing the risk of new human-caused fires during one of the busiest outdoor celebration periods of the year.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox
Utah has seen as many as six major wildfire outbreaks since mid-June, including the 94,000-acre Cottonwood Fire, which has destroyed more than 150 structures. Cox told reporters he had no choice in issuing the ban.
“I turn into a kid again every Fourth of July,” Cox said. “This is who we are. It's America's 250. I want people to be able to celebrate, and fireworks are part of that celebration. But this year we have to respond to the reality that is with us, not the one that we wish we had.”
Cox noted that fireworks are one of the most common ignition sources for wildfires. Officials said 22 of Utah’s 29 counties are experiencing extreme drought conditions because of the lowest winter snowpack since 1930.
Three firefighters were killed and two were injured last week in the Snyder Fire on Utah’s eastern border with Colorado.
The order bans the use of personal fireworks within city boundaries across the state through July 4, although individual cities can opt out. Professional fireworks shows put on by many communities are still allowed under the order.
State Forester Leslie Barnes said there is no place in the state right now where it is safe to use personal fireworks.
“If you're thinking about lighting fireworks at home, this is the year to make a different choice,” Barnes said. “Go to a permitted public show. Choose something that does not put another spark on the landscape. We know people want to celebrate the Fourth of July. We want you to celebrate also. We just need it to be done in a different way.”
The National Interagency Fire Center reports that as of June 1, there were 51 uncontained large wildfires actively burning across the United States, with more than 9,000 personnel deployed to battle the flames.
Wildfire season in the western U.S. spans from May through November, with the most intense activity normally in August and September.
