Fireworks restricted in some areas of Wasatch Front

SALT LAKE CITY — Fire officials have issued guidelines and restrictions in an effort to reduce holiday weekend fires and accidents.

Fireworks may be used in approved areas in Salt Lake City between Thursday and Monday, as well as July 21-27, according to the city fire department.

To reduce accidents, Utahns are encouraged to use only legal fireworks and buy from licensed dealers.

Fire officials also say revelers should only light fireworks away from buildings and dry brush. Small children should not be allowed to play with fireworks, and a bucket of water or hose should be nearby if needed to extinguish fireworks.

According to government regulators, most injuries from fireworks are caused by misuse.

Besides criminal charges, people who cause a fire through the negligent use of fireworks, fires or cigarettes can be forced to pay for the cost of extinguishing the fire.

Because of what they call "extreme fire conditions," Salt Lake City officials have announced a ban on fireworks and open fires in certain areas of the city.

According to the fire department, fires and fireworks are banned in the following areas:

All areas east of Wasatch Drive and east of Virginia Street, including the University of Utah campus.

 All areas north of 11th Avenue to City Creek Canyon.

 City Creek Canyon.

 North of 500 North behind the Capitol.

 East of Beck Street.

 All areas west of I-215 in Salt Lake City.

 All city parks.

 All canyon and interface areas.

 Any areas that contain dry grass or that may lead to the quick spread of fire.

Salt Lake County officials have also banned fireworks in the following areas:

 East of Wasatch Boulevard.

 South and west of state Route 111 (approximately 8400 West).

Other fireworks bans include:

 Alta: Complete ban within city limits.

 Holladay: East of Wasatch Boulevard.

 Cottonwood Heights: East of Wasatch Boulevard.

 Draper: West of I-15, south of 13800 South and east of Highland Drive.

 Herriman: North of 12600 South (except the Copper Creek subdivision), south of 14200 South and west of 6800 West.

e-mail: jsmith@desnews.com