Firefighters urge safe celebrations as firework stands spring up across Utah

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Firework stands are popping up in Utah ahead of Independence Day and Pioneer Day, and you can start buying and selling this week.

State Fire Marshal Ted Black warned of fire and injury risks from fireworks.

“The last thing we want is for the 4th of July or the 24th to be the day you remember as the worst day of your life,” Black said.

Here are the rules from the Utah State Fire Marshal’s office:

“In addition to the fire risk, we see a lot of injury happen as a result of fireworks and people hurting themselves, hurting neighbors, fingers getting blown off,” Kelly Bird, Unified Fire Authority Public Information Officer, said.

Utah residents are reminded to follow the rules and only purchase and use fireworks legally, as illegal purchases and use can result in injury or fire hazards. Check with your city about no firework zones; city websites and fire departments will provide updates. 

“If you are in a restricted area, then obviously you’re not supposed to be lighting them. If you’re near one of those fire restricted areas, we’re just going to ask you to use precaution and common sense,” Bird said. 

Fire Marshal Black said don’t buy fireworks illegally and stick to what’s on the shelves at stands in the Beehive State. He issued a warning of what ignoring precautions does.

“It endangers the lives of friends and neighbors. It endangers the lives of firefighters,” he said. “Please follow the rules, be careful, be safe and have a very happy 4th and 24th.”