July 4th is just about on top of us. What public lands allow fireworks? If you’re talking about federal lands, the simple answer is NONE.
Even sparklers are a no-no
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Forest Service and Park Service officials are reminding the public that all fireworks—sparklers included—are prohibited on all federal public lands.
Leave the fireworks to the professionals
Need a good reason to leave the fireworks to the professionals? Here’s just a small sampling:
• Fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,200 injuries in United States hospital emergency rooms during 2022.
• There is a statistically significant trend in estimated emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries from 2007 through 2022.
• Last year in late June and early July, all six wildfires in Washington state’s Pacific Cascades Region were started with fireworks.
Risks are high even in non-forested areas
“Fireworks pose a serious fire threat,” said Micah Johnson, Acting Fire Management Officer for Olympic Interagency Fire Management. “People often assume fireworks are only risky in forested areas, but other areas across the peninsula like campgrounds and sparsely vegetated areas you can find along the coast are susceptible too.”
Big fines or jail time
Let the night sky be your show. Fireworks are illegal on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service. Violators are subject to a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and/or up to six months in jail (36 CFR 261.52) and may additionally be held liable for suppression costs.
Fireworks are OUT with the feds. What public lands allow fireworks—off of federal lands? Check with local authorities if visiting state, county, or city parks.
Still want to see fireworks? Here’s a tip. Google “fireworks displays near me.” You’ll soon find professional displays you can cheer for, and not dismay Smokey Bear.
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Thank you, Russ and Tina! 🙂 Our house is high enough to see 6 or 7 different fire-works displays in the night of Independence Day. We don’t bother buying any fireworks ourselves. Thanks again, have a great week, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂
Neal, I think we should all head to your place to watch the shows !! 💥
Come ahead, Bill. Ginger’s parents will be here, so bring your RV. Once you’re set up at the RV barn, then come to the house and hang out. I’ll grill and we’ll have plenty of food. It will be sticky (i.e., humid), but we have ceiling fans on the back porch. There might even be a breeze. 🙂
And your gas prices are in the bottom ten across the nation. A win/Win situation !!
They certainly are, Bill! 🙂 And many of the states through which you might travel getting here also are among those with the lowest gasoline prices.🤔 We use the Open Roads fuel card for diesel, so I don’t know where those prices are. Have a great day, Bill! 🙂