As anyone in Colorado right now knows all too well, wildfires are rampant. Following the worst snow season on record, little rain and persistently windy, dry weather, every mountain community in the Colorado Rockies has issued a Stage 2 fire ban coming into the Fourth of July weekend. This means that absolutely no fireworks (not even sparklers), campfires, charcoal grills, outdoor smoking or open flames of any sort are allowed.
“Stage 2 fire restrictions mean that things are really dry,” said Sgt. Mike Schilling of the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. “Gas and liquid-fueled devices are still allowed. The big difference there is that there’s an on-off valve. The flame can be stopped immediately.”
Smoke has infiltrated Summit County from the Willow Fire near Leadville that has destroyed nearly 2,000 acres and prompted evacuations in Lake County. The Gold Mountain fire near Ouray has done the same, already burning 5,000 acres. Worst of all, the deadly Snyder Mesa fire near Grand Junction killed three firefighters and has grown to more than 30,000 acres.
Thus, as Colorado gears up for the Fourth of July, there’s one message that everyone planning a mountain getaway needs to hear: leave the fireworks at home and forget about gathering around a campfire.
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These restrictions aren’t meant to spoil anyone’s holiday. They’re in place because conditions across the high country are exceptionally dry, with warm temperatures, low humidity, and forests that can ignite from a single spark. One illegal firework or unattended flame has the potential to become the next major wildfire, putting homes, businesses, wildlife, and firefighters at risk.
Under Stage 2 restrictions, campfires are prohibited, even in many established fire rings and campgrounds. Fireworks are also illegal, regardless of whether they were purchased legally somewhere else. Activities that create sparks or open flames are heavily restricted, and violations can result in significant fines and other penalties.
If your Independence Day traditions usually include roasting marshmallows or lighting off fireworks, this is the year to find safer alternatives. Many mountain communities are replacing fireworks displays with drone shows, laser light displays, concerts, parades, and other family-friendly events that celebrate the holiday without increasing the fire danger.
Visitors and residents alike share the responsibility of protecting Colorado’s forests and mountain communities. It only takes one moment of carelessness to spark a wildfire that could burn for weeks or months.
Respect the Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, follow local regulations, and help ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe holiday weekend while keeping forests, neighborhoods, and first responders out of harm’s way.