News

Fourth of July Fireworks: the show will go on

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Fireworks show at Pioneer Park scheduled for July 4th

With local weather forecasts indicating continued hot, dry weather heading into the July 4th week, Prescott fire officials have carefully reviewed the annual fireworks show at Pioneer Park in light of the extreme fire danger within the region.

Interim Prescott Fire Chief Dan Fraijo says he recently inspected the original fireworks launch area and alternate locations with the objective of further minimizing any potential fire exposure.

After coordinating with the pyrotechnic fireworks contractor on a safer launch site as well as a reduction in explosive mortar size from 8 inches to 6 inches, Chief Fraijo determined that that the fireworks show will be held as scheduled, adding, "If there is rain, the 8 inch explosives will be allowed."

Chief Fraijo assures the public that along with the standard precautions put in place by the on-site Prescott Fire Department units, he has received a commitment from the U.S. Forest Service to supply an additional engine and six personnel. He added that firefighters will water down the mountainside and that a specialized mobile firefighting vehicle will be stationed at the site.

"Any time you have extreme fire conditions, there is great concern for public safety," explains Fraijo. "With the precautions we've taken, the fireworks show can go on."

For more information about the July 4th Celebration at Pioneer Park, visit the City of Prescott website.