Because of a lack of significant rain in many areas during the month of June, some grasses and trees are dry—leaving them more vulnerable to catching fire from wayward fireworks and sparklers.

“One spark is all it would take for a wildfire to start,” said Fred Turck, assistant director for wildfire prevention and education with the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF). “Fireworks that have finished burning are still extremely hot, and they can smolder in dry grass or leaves before a fire ignites.”

“We encourage everyone to be extra careful with fireworks and sparklers,” said John Miller, VDOF director of resource protection. “July 4th is a day to celebrate our freedom; it should not be a day for fighting wildfires in Virginia.”

Because many types of fireworks (including firecrackers, bottle rockets, skyrockets, torpedoes, and other fireworks that explode, travel laterally, rise into the air, or fire projectiles into the air) are illegal in Virginia, a good alternative to personal fireworks are the community displays put on in cities and towns across the Commonwealth. Check your local news source for information on times and locations.

“Also remember to ensure your charcoal briquettes are ‘dead out and cold’ before dumping them out of your grill as they can start wildfires just as easily as your fireworks,” said Miller.

Additional information on fire safety and state burning laws can be found at dof.virginia.gov.

Remember...”Only you can help Smokey Bear prevent forest fires.”