Colorado Springs fireworks displays canceled due to critical fire danger

Due to ongoing extreme fire danger, critically dry vegetation, and multiple large wildfires burning across Colorado, the Colorado Springs Fire Department and the City of Colorado Springs have made the difficult decision to cancel all permitted Independence Day fireworks displays scheduled for July 4.

The decision was made jointly by Mayor Yemi Mobolade, the Colorado Springs Fire Department, Colorado Springs Police Department, and public safety partners after evaluating current fire conditions, fuel moisture levels, weather forecasts and the strain on firefighting resources across the state. Current fuel moisture levels in Colorado Springs are comparable to those recorded before the Waldo Canyon Fire, underscoring the extreme wildfire risk facing our community.

While this year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 150th birthday of Colorado, public safety must remain the City's top priority. The goal is to postpone celebrations when fire danger and weather conditions allow.

"This decision was not made lightly, especially as our nation prepares to celebrate America's 250th birthday," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "But with extreme fire conditions across our region, one of the most patriotic things we can do this year is protect the city we love and the neighbors we cherish. I know our community will rise to this moment by choosing caution, caring for one another, and putting the safety of Colorado Springs first."

Public safety officials have been in close contact with the National Weather Service and promoters of permitted firework shows and have agreed that cancelling these events is the safest option for the community.

"Wildfires across the state continue to intensify and the last thing I want as your Fire Chief is for a wildfire to break out in our own city when resources are already stretched thin," said Fire Chief Randy Royal. "This is not a decision that came easy, but it is a decision that needed to be made due to the critical weather we continue to see and is expected to continue through the weekend. We are anticipating being in Red Flag conditions again on Saturday with thunderstorms, which will bring wind, later in the day. My ask to the community is that you please celebrate safely and refrain from using any fireworks."

In addition to wildfire risk, firefighting resources across Colorado continue to be committed to active incidents making it critical to reduce the potential for additional fires during what has traditionally been one of the busiest days for public safety.

It is imperative that residents follow the firework laws and burn bans put in place for their safety. Colorado Springs Police officers will have additional help during the holiday, but the community should share the responsibility of ensuring they're following the laws of Colorado Springs.

"Ultimately, public safety depends on more than law enforcement, it depends on the decisions each of us makes," said Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez. "We will have increased enforcement throughout the holiday, and if you're cited for using illegal fireworks, you can expect a mandatory court appearance and potentially significant fines. More importantly, we ask everyone to think beyond the citation. One careless decision can start a fire, destroy someone's home, seriously injure a neighbor, and forever change your own life and the lives of others. We encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly, respect the law, and help us keep Colorado Springs safe this Independence Day."

CSFD will continue to monitor fire conditions throughout the summer and appreciates the community's understanding and cooperation as everyone works together to keep Colorado Springs safe.