By Tiffany Erickson

Another dry summer is upon us and though most Utah fire marshals have not yet declared restrictions, there is a good chance they will be just as restrictive as last year.

Different states have different firework restrictions. Utah along with 42 other states allows some types of consumer fireworks permitted by federal regulation. Even though the state restrictions here are a little more on the lax end of the spectrum, the law still has specific prohibitions.

Firecrackers, cannon crackers, salutes, cherry bombs, sky rockets, roman candles, and aerial fireworks that have effects higher than 15 feet are prohibited. Additionally, devices that travel more than 10 feet laterally are also prohibited.

Lt. Doug Edwards with the Orem City Fire Department said with summers being as dry as they are, public safety officers have been directed by administrators to take a zero-tolerance stance in dealing with citizens using illegal fireworks, and using fireworks in non-designated areas.

"Many citizens don't realize that though legal fireworks can be purchased well before the Fourth, they can't be used until three days before and three days after [July 4 and 24]," said Edwards.

Edwards said in past years many Utahns have gone across the border to Wyoming to load up on illegal fireworks with a bigger bang and louder boom. But the Utah Highway Patrol is onto them, and will be on the lookout for people bringing fireworks across the border.

Captain Mike Keen of the Utah Highway Patrol said where it is so dry this year, patrols will be he heeding contents of vehicles during routine stops to help in reducing the risk of fires.

Logan Fire Marshal Liz Hunsaker said even though Logan is a bit more green than the rest of the Wasatch front, Logan has bans on fireworks south of 400 North, east of 1400 East, north of 400 North and east of 1600 East. The foothills and benches along with city bans are similar to the previous year.

The following tips issued in a press release from the State Fire Marshal's Office will help in making July 4 and 24 more safe. Select only safe and sane fireworks that are legal in Utah; always read directions carefully; never experiment with fireworks; never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks; light one at a time; never give fireworks to small children; keep a bucket of water or a hose handy; and dispose of them properly.

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