The U.S. Forest Service Wants to Remind You That Fireworks Are Prohibited in the Six Rivers National Forest

[File photo by Kym Kemp]

With many people choosing to enjoy a long Independence Day weekend on the Six Rivers National Forest, acting Forest Supervisor Michael Green reminds forest visitors that the use of fireworks, including California’s “Safe and Sane” fireworks, are not allowed on national forest lands. Regulations are strictly enforced to protect public and natural resources.

Communities near the forest’s four ranger stations do not have public fireworks displays. However, the coastal cities of Crescent City, Eureka and Arcata will have community events and public fireworks displays on Tuesday, July 4. Fortuna’s celebration and fireworks will be on Monday, July 3.

“We want everyone to have a good experience out in the forest,” said Green, “but fireworks and forests just don’t go well together. It only takes one spark to start a wildfire.” He added, “We’re moving into that hot, dry time of year when we are at a higher risk for wildfires.”

Interagency Forest Fire Chief Mike Minton said, “With the above normal rainfall this year, our grass and other light fuels are abundant and have cured out to a point where they’re susceptible to ignition by fireworks.”

Prohibiting fireworks on public lands is one way to mitigate these risks, but there are other ways. One of them is through increased homeowner participation in our efforts to create wildfire-resilient communities and increase visitor awareness of fire safety and prevention.

To help increase fire awareness, the forest, community partners, and fire cooperators worked together to develop Living with Wildfire in Northwestern California. This publication is available from any Six Rivers’ office—Eureka, Gasquet, Orleans, Willow Creek and Mad River, as well as online at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/srnf/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD541187.

The public is also encouraged to visit www.preventwildfireca.org to learn more about wildland fire awareness, fire prevention and how to protect their homes and communities from wildfire, how to exercise safe campfire practices, and to pick up a free campfire permit. Campfire permits are not required in developed recreation sites; however, they are required in all other forest locations.