The month if May is wildfire awareness month. Wildfires can be caused by lightning, human carelessness, or arson.
“Approximately 99-percent of Utah is in a severe drought condition, which means many water conservancy districts have enacted restrictions on water use,” said Council Member Pamela Bloom. “Putting out wildfires can take valuable water from Utah’s local reservoirs.”
For example, suppressing three major fires in Washington County during Summer 2020 drew approximately 765,000 gallons of water from local reservoirs.
Preventing wildfires is a surefire way to help conserve water. Here’s what you can do to help.
- If you start a pit fire, make sure there are no glowing embers, and that the pit fire area is cold to the touch before you leave.
- Don’t start fires in high winds or areas with lots of dry brush.
- Abide by local firework ordinances and maps.
- If you light fireworks, be sure to have water handy, including a hose or bucket of water.
- Keep vehicles off dry grass, hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires.
“Following firework restrictions is essential in reducing fire risk,” said Council Member Kayleen Whitelock. “Restrictions are placed in areas where it is difficult for the fire department to fight a fire—often due to geography, dry vegetation, or water availability.”
By keeping fireworks in designated areas, residents help ease the burden of the fire department by greatly reducing the chance of starting a fire.
You can find the finalized firework restrictions recommended by the Fire Marshall and approved by the Council on the City website.
