Public Information Officer, Caley Pruitt, 720-391-1565 | caley.pruitt@state.co.us
Lakewood,CO- The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) hopes you and your friends and family have an enjoyable and safe Fourth of July this year.
If lighting fireworks is included in your plans, please make sure you’re doing it safely and protecting all of your friends, neighbors, and our Colorado open spaces and wildlife by only using permissible fireworks, purchased from a Colorado licensed fireworks store, stand, or tent. Additionally, make sure to check your local fire restrictions before setting off any permissible fireworks.
Sparklers alone generally cause about one-fourth of all injuries during each year’s Fourth of July celebrations, according to the NFPA. Amateurs who set off fireworks caused an estimated 19,500 fires and generated around 9,000 emergency room visits over the entire year in the U.S. in 2018. That's why DFPC is encouraging everyone who participates in the Fourth of July holiday to find alternative ways to celebrate, such as through the use of glow sticks.
“A fun and exciting Fourth of July season that is SAFE is our top priority,” said DFPC Fire and Life Safety Section Chief, Chris Brunette. “That's why you should leave the big shows to the pros.”
Information on fire restrictions and bans can change rapidly. The most current information can and should be obtained from your local county Sheriff or the Forest Service. Visit https://bit.ly/34JA8jz for more information.
For more information on DFPC Fireworks program, please visit dfpc.colorado.gov/fireworks