Firework use limited for July 4th weekend

WASILLA -- Due to extreme fire danger conditions the Alaska State Fire Marshal has ordered a mandatory temporary suspension of the sale or use of fireworks in certain communities over the 4th of July weekend and a voluntary suspension in other areas.

Areas that are under mandatory suspension for the use or sale of fireworks are North Pole, Glennallen, Nenana, Tok and communities surrounding Fairbanks. The suspension may be extended to other areas as well, based on weather conditions. The suspension will be lifted when weather conditions improve and it does not apply to licensed pyrotechnic firework displays.

Firework vendors in other areas of the state are being asked to voluntarily suspend the sale of aerial devices, including bottle rockets.

The Alaska State Fire Marshal wants Alaskans to consider the weather conditions when deciding to use fireworks over the weekend. The local Division of Forestry offices monitors weather conditions and can advise if it is too dry to use fireworks. Call the division's fire line at 761-6311 for more information.

Contact Joel Davidson at joel.davidson@frontiersman.com.