Video: Salt Lake Valley Fire Chiefs 2021 Fireworks Message

Salt Lake Valley Fire Chiefs 2021 Fireworks Message

We’re in this together #SkipAYear

Fire Agencies valley wide are strongly suggesting to “Skip a Year” due to the unpreceded nature of our current climate and the potential dangers associated with the private usage of fireworks. Temperatures will be high over the next few weeks which results in extreme fire behavior.

Due to these drought conditions, fire threats extend beyond interface areas into residential communities. Grass, and vegetation around homes are extremely dry, increasing the potential for ignition. It just takes one loose firework…

Fire agencies are suggesting alternatives such as attending local/professional firework shows. We suggest checking with your local municipality for times and locations.

Our fire personnel are stretched thin over the summer holidays and this year will be no exception. Staffing and resources are finite and need to be directed towards emergencies that cannot be easily prevented like firework related fires.

Last year, Salt Lake Valley fire departments handled roughly 500 firework related calls during the two holidays. Each callout for fireworks means there are less firefighters to respond quickly to individuals needing immediate medical attention.

Fines for shooting off fireworks in banned areas will be heavily enforced. These fines can be up to $1,000. If you are responsible for lighting fireworks that result in a fire, you will be held responsible for the cost of suppressing the fire and any damage that occurs.

Please do not call 911 to report illegal fireworks. Call the non-emergency dispatch at (801) 799-3000 in SLC or Sandy. The rest of Salt Lake Valley can call (801) 840-4000.