July 1, 2022 |
The Fourth of July weekend is here. The exuberance and revelry in celebrating the national holiday often overshadows common sense, resulting in injury, death and property damage.
For starters, Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford reminds residents and visitors fireworks are illegal to use or possess in Carbon County without a permit.
The hard line against fireworks in the county dates back to 1981, and nothing has changed this year.
The fire warden encourages folks to attend the organized public displays:
- City of Rawlins – July 4th
- Medicine Bow – July 4th
- Baggs – July 4th
- Saratoga – July 4th
- Seminoe Boat Club – July 2nd
- Encampment – July 4th
In Saratoga, the Old Bald Club will hold its display on July4th, and its visible from well-known viewing spots around town.
Rutherford also reminded folks that even the most harmless looking pyrotechnical device can be dangerous. Sparklers, for instance, burn a 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 18 people died from fireworks-related incidents in 2020, compared to 12 reported for the previous year. About 15,600 people were treated in hospital emergency departments for fireworks injuries in 2020. There were about 10,000 ER-treated fireworks injuries in 2019. The use of alcohol and or drugs are often a contributing factor in these mishaps, the CPSC reports.
Last year, a grass fire was started in Rawlins when some residents shot off fireworks illegally. So, Rawlins Fire Chief Blain Schumacher offered a similar message headed into the weekend. Lay off the fireworks at home and go enjoy a public celebration.
Pictured above: File photo of fireworks.
In addition to the public displays over the weekend, Brush Creek Ranch received a permit for a private display on July 4th.
