Firework safety and other precautions from Rock Springs Fire Chief Wamsley

 

Tyler Johnson, [email protected]

SWEETWATER COUNTY, WYOMING (June 30, 2021) – With Independence Day rapidly approaching, Rock Springs Fire Department Chief Jim Wamsley is reminding the public about fire safety and firework restrictions within city limits.

 

“With the exception of sparklers, fireworks are illegal all year in the cities of Rock Springs and Green River. All types of fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal on all public lands, including Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Forest Service and State Land,” Wamsley said.

“Although fireworks may be discharged on private land and other unincorporated areas, you must have written permission from the land owner. Use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using fireworks as they burn very hot in excess of 1200 degrees.”

Wamsley noted that in 2018, there were over 9,100 reported injuries from burns and other traumas from the improper use of fireworks and that there more 13,500 fires reported in the United States.

 

Planning on getting away for the Fourth of July and going on a camping trip? Wamsley also reminds people to use proper precaution when it comes to campfires.

“Always be sure your campfire is completely out before leaving it. Put the fire out and stir it with a shovel. Repeat as necessary to ensure that it does not reignite and cause a wild land fire,” he said. “Keep all combustibles well away from the fire and clear an area of six feet in diameter around the fire ring. Make sure small children and pets stay at a safe distance from the fire.”

He also advises people to stay on paved roadways and not travel in tall grass or vegetation.

“The heat from the vehicle’s exhaust systems can easily ignite grass and brush causing a wildfire and burning your vehicle at the same time,” he said.

 

With the increased temperatures and level of dryness, fires can ignite easily.

“This year has been very dry and temperatures are projected to be above normal with precipitation below normal. These conditions will contribute the rapid growth and spread of fire in the event of any ignition,” Wamsley said.

“Stay informed about fire restrictions where you are and will be. You can search ‘Wyoming Fire Restrictions 2021’ on the internet to find out what fire restrictions are in place.”

As a reminder, there are several places around Sweetwater County to enjoy a firework show without having to light them personally.

 

Sweetwater Events Complex

Many local businesses came together to fund a firework show at the Sweetwater Events Complex , located at 3320 Yellowstone Road, this year. The city of Rock Springs normally funds the show, however, was unable to cover the costs this year because of budget cutbacks.

The show is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.

Partners include WyoRadio, Infinity Power & Controls, Kelly’s Convenience Centers, the Spicer Family Foundation, Sweetwater Speedway and the City of Rock Springs.

City of Green River

 

 

The city of Green River will host the annual fireworks show this Fourth of July. The city is in the second year of the two-year contract with Lantis Fireworks to put on the display for our community.

The show will begin at 10 p.m. Sunday night. The company will conduct the show from the pond area at the Wastewater Treatment facility. Residents can gather at Veterans field, Stratton Meyers park, and other areas around the city to watch the show.

Buckboard Marina

Buckboard Marina, located at HC 65 Box 100 in Green River at the Flaming Gorge, is hosting its fireworks show at 10 p.m.

WyoRadio will be playing 4th of July music beginning at 10 p.m. for the duration of the firework shows. Listen in on 99.7 FM and 96.5 FM. Tune in from either town, or any location in Sweetwater County.