SOUTHERN COLORADO — If you have been in Colorado for any amount of time, you'll likely notice the beautiful green grass and trees that a wet spring has brought us. Colorado is still 100% drought free! With all the incredible growth this year, it's hard to think of wildfire danger yet. Coming up to the Fourth of July, it is still important to stay alert and prevent wildfires from fireworks.
Jeremy Taylor from Colorado Springs Fire Department Wildfire Mitigation notes that the state's wildfire risk is generally low at this moment in time, but some fuels are still susceptible to fires. He asserts that this exponential growth of foliage and vegetation can dry out enough to burn, even within a day of receiving rain. Grasses can dry out quickly and would be first to spark due to fireworks. Looking further into the season, Taylor notes that the taller and more lush plants we have right now would provide for fuel for wildfires, if drought like conditions return later this year.
The forecast for Independence Day this year is hot and dry, with temperatures climbing to the 90s and 100s for the front range and the Plains. Mountain towns will likely see 80s. If you live in a city or county that allows some kinds of fireworks, be sure to keep a bucket of water nearby. Keep matches, lighters, and fuses away from grass and flammable materials. The safest way for you to celebrate would be to watch a professional firework display.
