Restrictions temporarily lift for fireworks through July 4: Aurora Fire Rescue
DENVER (KDVR) — Aurora Fire Rescue is temporarily lifting a fire restriction to permit the sale and use of fireworks that do not explode or leave the ground through Independence Day.
Aurora Fire Rescue announced the decision to lift the city's standing Stage 1 Fire Restriction to allow fireworks within the city's ordinance, Colorado state restrictions.
Don't call 911: Here's how to report illegal fireworks in Colorado
The burn restriction is in place throughout the year, intending to prevent the start of structural or wildland fires. It will be lifted from June 15 to July 4 and certain types of fireworks will be allowed, conditions permitting.
'Aurora Fire Rescue determines the need for a fire ban based on current climate and weather conditions using a data-driven approach. Three nationally recognized metrics developed by researchers at the University of Colorado guide this decision. A fire ban is implemented only when all three fire risk metrics meet or exceed the designated thresholds,' explained Aurora Fire Chief Alec Oughton in the announcement. 'At this time, only one of the three metrics has reached that level. Based on a comprehensive evaluation of current conditions, a fire ban will not be enacted.'
AFR said that the permissible and illegal fireworks in Aurora are similar to the kinds that are allowed or restricted statewide.
In Colorado, fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal, unless they are part of a professional display presented by someone certified by the Division of Fire Prevention and Control. Some examples of illegal fireworks include
Firecrackers
Aerial devices, such as rockets and bottle rockets
Roman candles
Cherry bombs
Mortars or similar items, such as M-80s
Police caution against illegal fireworks
The agency warns that persons must be 16 or older to possess, use or discharge fireworks, unless under the supervision of an adult 21 years and older. Aurora fireworks ordinance violations can come with a fine up to $2,650 and/or up to one year in jail and other fees.
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