Red Cross urges fireworks caution ahead of holidays

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Red Cross of Utah advises skipping personal fireworks due to high wildfire risk.
Active fires like Iron and Cottonwood have burned thousands of acres in Utah.

WEST VALLEY CITY — The American Red Cross of Utah is urging residents to skip personal fireworks this holiday season as wildfire danger remains high across the state heading into the Fourth of July and Pioneer Day.

Fire officials say Utah is already dealing with active large fires, including the Iron Fire, which has burned more than 31,000 acres across Juab, Utah and Tooele counties, and the Cottonwood Fire near Beaver, which has burned more than 27,000 acres and forced evacuations.

The warning comes as dry vegetation, heat and wind continue to create conditions that can allow fires to spread quickly. State officials also say Utah remains under a statewide drought emergency following a low snowpack year.

The Red Cross says the risk is heightened by human activity, including fireworks.

"We all want to celebrate that 250-year anniversary, but we have some wonderful professional shows that'll be going on throughout the state of Utah," said Jeremiah LaFranca, American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake executive director. "So you can still enjoy that you can still celebrate in a good way, but be safe."

Officials say more than 335 wildfires have already been reported in Utah this year, and about 75% were caused by people.

The Iron Fire's smoke columns, sunset glow and night sky seen from the north side of the fire in Juab County on Sunday. (Photo: Theo Maynard)

"When we have 335 wildfires that have happened this year and 75% of those were human-caused, this is a prime time to really have some. Accidents happen, and we just want to make sure we avoid that," LaFranca said.

State fire officials warn that even a small spark from fireworks can quickly grow into a fast-moving wildfire under current conditions.

Utah law allows state-approved fireworks sales from June 24 through July 25, but use is restricted to specific holiday windows and may be further limited by local governments.

Fireworks are responsible for nearly 20,000 fires each year nationwide, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The Red Cross is urging Utahns to check local restrictions, choose professional fireworks displays and call 911 immediately if they see a fire.

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