County Offers Safer Fireworks Location

Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at 12:17 PM

San Juan County will open the north parking lot of McGee Park for people to light fireworks from dark on Saturday, June 29, until 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 7, 2019. The parking lot is available for anyone to come and light fireworks while steering clear of brush or buildings.

From San Juan County:

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

This Independence Day, San Juan County invites you to light your fireworks in the parking lot of McGee Park.

San Juan County Fire Marshal Chris Cardin says the increased moisture this season and over the winter has not totally eliminated the threat of firework-caused wildfires.

“People still need to be careful when lighting fireworks. If you are in the middle of a parking lot, most of the risk from a firework fire is removed,” said Cardin, “A clear parking lot is an ideal place to put on a fireworks show.”

Space in the McGee Park parking lot is first come, first serve, and alcohol is not allowed. San Juan County will provide a large dumpster to dispose of used fireworks, and the lights in the parking lot will be off at night. San Juan County Fire Department recommends bringing water to drown spent fireworks, and a fire extinguisher. All we ask is that you clean up your spent fireworks and any trash before you leave the parking lot.

Additionally, the San Juan County Fire Department has some important reminders for anyone lighting fireworks this year.

ALWAYS light fireworks on paved or barren, flat ground.

ALWAYS read and follow label directions

ALWAYS light fireworks outside.

ALWAYS have a readily available water source.

ALWAYS light one firework at a time.

ALWAYS dispose of fireworks properly.

NEVER relight fireworks which didn’t go off.

NEVER let small children handle fireworks.

NEVER throw fireworks.

NEVER shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

Each jurisdiction has its own firework restrictions in place. It is important to know the rules for your city or town and buy fireworks in the jurisdiction you plan to light them.

If there is ever any emergency, please call 911.

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