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With the Fourth of July holiday and associated festivities fast approaching, Yavapai County Emergency Management would like to remind everyone that the County is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.

The county, along with several other fire jurisdictions within Yavapai County, entered Stage 1 fire restrictions on June 6, 2024. For more information on local fire restrictions in your area, please contact your local fire agency.

Activities prohibited under Stage 1 fire restrictions in Yavapai County include:

• The sale or use of fireworks.
• Setting up, maintaining, monitoring or using a fire or campfire other than on a developed recreational site.
• Smoking anywhere except inside an enclosed vehicle/building, developed recreational facility, or outdoor area with a clear space at least three feet in diameter.
• Operating or using equipment containing an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arrestor properly installed and maintained.

Fire restrictions are in place to prevent human-caused fires and protect the people and land of Yavapai County.

Fireworks are a traditional Fourth of July tradition, but are prohibited during Fire Restrictions Stage 1, so YCOEM has some alternatives in place.

• Attend a public fireworks display: Many communities host professional fireworks displays that comply with safety regulations.
• Use alternatives: Consider using glow sticks, LED lights, or other non-flammable items for your celebrations.
• Educate and inform: Educate family and friends about the importance of fire safety and the restrictions currently in place.

“As Independence Day approaches, we understand the importance of celebrating our nation's freedom, but let's do so responsibly and put the safety of our community first,” Emergency Manager Ashley Alquist said.

“Fireworks can pose a significant fire hazard, especially during this time of year. We ask that everyone enjoy alternative celebrations and help keep Yavapai County safe from the risk of wildfire.”

The fire ban will remain in effect until the risk abates and officials agree to lift the restrictions. More information on Stage 1 fire restrictions and the Yavapai County Outdoor Fire Ordinance 2020-2 can be found here. Yavapai LadyFor more information on preparation, About this site.

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