With record high fire hazard conditions and high temperatures forecast for next week Jackson Hole Fire/EMS Fire Marshal Kathy Clay announced today that she has officially cancelled all July 4th firework displays.
“Although a plan to move fireworks from Snow King to a county location bordering town has been in the works, the messaging of holding fireworks while entering this epic drought is inconsistent,” said Clay. “Weather projections continue to indicate this could be one of the driest years on record. Everyone together, homeowner and visitor alike, must be keenly aware of the dangerous summer we are beginning.”
“This is a strong message to our community to join together to eliminate all human-caused fire risk,” said Chief Brady Hansen. “I urge everyone in the community or visiting the area to be very aware of the extremely dry conditions this summer.”
Fire restrictions for public and private land are anticipated to be declared, making open fires and other ignition sources prohibited.
Homeowners are urged to begin preparing their properties for a wildland fire event and remain aware of daily conditions.
“Winds tend to increase in the afternoon and humidity drops low then too,” Clay noted. “If we get a fire on the ground, afternoons will be the most dangerous and challenging for the public and for firefighters.”
Fireworks are illegal in Teton County and all surrounding public lands.
The public is also encouraged to sign-up for Nixle by texting TETON_WY to 888777 or by visiting www.nixle.com, to receive evacuation alert notices, should an evacuation be necessary due to a wildland fire.
To learn more about fire conditions, evacuation measures, and preparing your home for a wildland fire event, visit the online websites at Jackson Hole Fire/EMS http://www.tetonwyo.org/149/Jackson-Hole-FireEMS-Department or Teton Interagency Fire https://gacc.nifc.gov/gbcc/dispatch/wy-tdc/home/.
