News and Articles

06/28/2011

Any Spark Can Start a Fire - Santa Fe County asks residents to voluntarily refrain from using all fireworks

"Any Spark Can Start a Fire"

Santa Fe County asks residents to voluntarily refrain from using all fireworks


Santa Fe, NM – June 28, 2011- Santa Fe County is prohibited by state law from banning the sale and use of all fireworks. Santa Fe County can only ban the sale and use of certain fireworks, such as bottle rockets and roman candles that shoot into the air. Those that remain permissible are limited to areas that are paved or barren and not covered with grass or brush and include sparklers, ground spinners, and cone fountains. However, due to the extreme fire danger, the county is asking residents to voluntarily refrain from using all fireworks, even those permissible under state law.

“We’re asking residents to protect their property and neighborhoods by avoiding the use of all consumer fireworks this year,” said County Fire Chief David Sperling. “I encourage residents to attend a public fireworks display or find an alternative means to celebrate our nation’s independence. Let’s keep Santa Fe County safe this holiday.” 

Resolution 2011-87 Proclaim Extreme or Severe Drought Conditions
Extreme or Severe Drought Conditions within Santa Fe County and Ban the Sale and Use of Certain Fireworks in the Unincorporated Portions of The County and Within Wildlands in the County 

Ordinance 2001-4 Declaring Hazardous Fire Conditions
Declaring Hazardous Fire Conditions and Imposing Restrictions on Open Fires, Smoking and Other Ignition Sources

To view Resolution 2011- 87 or Ordinance 2011-4 visit www.santafecountynm.gov/ordinances_and_resolutions or for more information on fire restrictions contact Santa Fe County Fire Prevention Division, (505) 995-6523.


On Monday, July 4, 2011 Santa Fe County command staff, fire prevention staff, regional crews and volunteers will be on duty and patrolling unincorporated areas of the county in an effort to be visual reminders of restrictions and act as a quick attach for any fires that may occur. The Santa Fe County Fire Department will also be education members of the community while patrolling and watching for fires.
Complaints of fireworks can be directed to the non-emergency number, (505) 428-3730. Please report all fires, flames and smoke directly to 9-1-1.