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SANDY - As people across Utah kick off their 4th of July celebrations, firefighters are launching intensive patrols for illegal fireworks. They are worried about personal safety and fires.
All Sandy firefighters will be on duty Saturday, taking on jobs like parade safety, concert crowd control and fireworks patrol.
Fire officials warn those caught with illegal fireworks this holiday weekend face a minimum fine of $500, and will be held responsible for any damage.
Firefighters are trying to spread this message: be safe, be smart and have fun.
Ryan McConaghie, an engineer with the Sandy City Fire Department said, "It's a fun holiday and it's building good memories and starting a fire is definitely not a memory that you would want to build."
Firefighters say it is important to keep 30 to 50 feet of clearing around your home when lighting fireworks, so that in case a fire breaks out, your home will be better protected.
This summer's wet weather makes the fire danger a little less intense than in years past. As the temperatures grow, however, things will dry out and the fire danger will go up again.
E-mail: sdallof@ksl.com
