Utah’s Firework Fires: The Surprising Stats & How to Help

We all love lighting up the sky for the 4th of July. Backyard BBQs, sparklers, and those booming fireworks that we drove to Wyoming for. It’s just part of the summer tradition in Utah. But here’s the part a lot of us don't want to focus on. Fireworks are also lighting up a whole lot of fields, hillsides, and backyards with blazing fires. No bueno.

The numbers are pretty wild. According to KSL, Utah used to average around 50 fires every July started by fireworks. But after aerial fireworks were legalized in 2011, that number doubled. We now average about 100 fireworks-related fires every July — and most of those happen right around the 4th.

Some of these are small grass fires that get put out quickly. Others? They turn into full-blown wildfires that keep firefighters working around the clock. It adds up to millions in damage, not to mention a pretty stressful holiday for first responders.

Honestly, it’s simple:
✔ Only light fireworks where it’s legal.
✔ Stay away from dry grass and fields (which, let’s be real, is most of Utah right now).
✔ Keep water or a hose close by.
✔ Or hey — skip the backyard show and hit up a professional fireworks display. Less stress, more sparkle.

We all love a good show. Let’s just keep it safe.

READ MORE: Firework Restrictions