Don't send Utah up in flames for the Fourth

Fire officials say Utah is readier than ever to burn and urge extra caution as the Fourth of July holiday approaches.

"(This is) probably one of the most dangerous fire seasons that I can remember in recent times over the Fourth," said Utah State Fire Marshal Ron Morris.

Morris said drought in the previous several years has made for extremely dry vegetation this year that can easily ignite.

"We have already had a tremendous amount of fire activity across the state with wildland fires and, unfortunately, the majority of those have been man-caused," he said.

Statewide restrictions

Statewide, officials have banned the use of all fireworks west of I-15, except in incorporated towns and cities.

Washington County

The statewide ban includes all of Washington County — except in incorporated towns and cities — and St. George has not imposed any fireworks restrictions.

Utah County

Utah County has already had its share of fires this season. Dennis Barker, Utah County fire marshal, said the county's resources are being stretched thin during a premature fire season.

He counted five big fires already this year and said the county will continue to battle fires through the Wednesday holiday — and very likely beyond.

"We're just struggling down here," he said.

He recommended people not use fireworks at all in his county, but if they do, to use caution.

Utah County has banned fireworks in its unincorporated areas. Provo has banned fireworks within its city limits except for Sertoma Park, North Exchange Park, Fort Utah Park and Footprinters Park. It has also banned discharging fireworks within 20 feet of combustible vegetation in the city limits.

Provo has also forbidden fireworks east of South State Street, north to Slate Canyon Drive, north to 300 South, west to 900 East, north to Timpview (650 East), north to Foothill Drive (4525 North), west to Canyon Road, then north to University Avenue.

Davis County