Blaze in Salt Lake County prompts fireworks warning

COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS — Firefighters say a small fireworks-ignited blaze in a field here early Tuesday was a good reminder for residents of why they shouldn't get a false sense of security.

Just after midnight, several residents heard and saw fireworks in a field near 3145 E. Banbury (7400 South) shortly before seeing a fire ignite, said Unified Fire Authority Capt. Clint Smith.

The fire prompted the evacuations of about four homes for about 30 to 40 minutes, Smith said. Crews from three agencies were able to knock down most of the fire within an hour. There was no property damage or injuries.

With the Fourth of July weekend coming up, Smith said the fire was a reminder that even though an abnormally large amount of rain fell on the Wasatch Front in June, fireworks can still be dangerous if not handled properly.

"It's not on the forefront of their minds right now because it's been so wet. You think things aren't going to burn. But once you get enough spark into anything, it's still going to take off and burn," Smith said. "Residents need to be mindful that all the same do's and don'ts apply this year as in years that it's been drier."

Smith said residents, especially juveniles, also need to remember there's still a law that only allows fireworks to be ignited from three days prior to three days after July 4.

"The real big factor people need to realize in any type of damage caused by a firework, if those people who set it off are found, they can be held accountable for all the damages and the cost of fighting and putting out the fire," Smith said.

— Pat Reavy