A ban on fireworks in certain areas of Bernalillo County went into effect Wednesday, just in time for the Fourth of July.
No fireworks, including sparklers and fountains, are allowed in areas east of Tramway Boulevard to the west face of the Sandias, the East Mountains and the Rio Grande Bosque, said Chris Gober, Bernalillo County fire marshal.
“Wildlife, trees and grasses — that’s starting to dry out and getting to a critical level, so we’re trying to limit the number of human-caused wildfires,” he said.
Gober said there are between 30 and 40 wildfires caused by fireworks every year, which is why the county implemented the ban. He said recent dry weather increases the fire risk.
“If we don’t get any really good moisture within the next couple weeks, the fire potential will probably become extreme,” he said.
He said the ban was also in effect last year around July 4. Sandoval County is under a similar ban, he said.
He said only “safe and sane” fireworks should be used in unrestricted areas of Bernalillo County.
“Safe and sane” are fireworks that don’t go more than 10 feet high and stay within a 6-foot-diameter circle, he said.
The City of Albuquerque also issued fireworks restrictions against all “aerial and ground audible devices,” including roman candles and firecrackers.
People caught with illegal fireworks will get a citation, must appear in court and can receive fines up to $500 and jail time, according to the City of Albuquerque website.
Gober said he hasn’t received any complaints about the restrictions. He said community members are more concerned that fireworks are still legal in Bernalillo County.
Jennifer Pavis, manager of Phantom Fireworks in Hidalgo County, said the store sells fireworks that aren’t “safe and sane” because Hidalgo has different regulations. She said Phantom still encourages all buyers to practice safe firework use.
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“When people come in we give them a safety flier,” she said. “After you finish with your fireworks, make sure you dump water on it to make sure it’s completely out.”
Scott Scanland, a lobbyist for Tent Fireworks in Albuquerque, said the store only stocks “safe and sane,” but it’s up to the buyer to use fireworks in approved areas. He said the store only sells “safe and sane” fireworks because of state law.
He said some important safety tips include reading directions, avoiding dry areas and always having an extinguisher ready for emergencies.
“(Fireworks) aren’t toys. They shouldn’t be something to play with,” he said.
