Kanab City urges fireworks safety ahead of July Fourth

KANAB — As Independence Day approaches, Kanab City is encouraging residents to celebrate responsibly and take extra precautions when using fireworks amid an active wildfire season across Utah.

City officials are urging residents to attend Kanab City’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show and reminding those who choose to use personal fireworks that they may be discharged only within the city’s approved fireworks discharge area during the dates and times allowed under state law and local ordinance.

Approved discharge times:

• July 2–3: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

• July 4: 11:00 a.m. to midnight

• July 5: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

According to a statement released by the city, the mayor and fire chief reviewed the governor’s wildfire emergency order and the fi reworks discharge area previously approved by the Kanab City Council. While they believe fireworks can be used responsibly within the designated area, officials emphasized that no location is completely without risk.

The city is asking residents to avoid using fireworks when conditions are windy, keep a water source nearby and stay well away from dry grass, brush and other vegetation. Officials also recommend using ground-based fireworks, such as fountains, whenever possible because they generally present a lower wildfire risk than aerial fireworks.

Residents are reminded that fireworks are not permitted in city parks, on school property or on other public property. Anyone using fireworks in the approved discharge area is also asked to clean up spent fireworks and other debris before leaving.

The reminder comes as firefighters continue responding to numerous wildfires across Utah and the West. Dry conditions and above-normal fire activity have prompted emergency declarations and expanded fi re restrictions in many areas of the state, increasing concerns about preventable human-caused fi res during the holiday weekend.

City officials said Kanab is fortunate to have a dedicated fire department but noted that the best way residents can support local firefighters is by preventing emergencies before they happen.

“We know Kanab residents care about this community and can celebrate responsibly,” the city said in its statement.