Fireworks Cancelled, but Other Events Will Go On at Mile High Middle School
Fireworks Display Called Off for Safety Reasons Event at Mile High Middle School will Still Go On
The City of Prescott has cancelled the annual fireworks display for the Fourth of July celebration. The event at Mile High Middle School is scheduled to go on, starting at 12 noon.
The decision to cancel the fireworks was not made lightly, but was done with public safety in mind. Prescott Fire Chief Dennis Light cited several factors in the decision, including the Stage Two Fire Restrictions that were put in place on Friday.
In a letter to City leadership today, he said: “This determination was arrived at based upon a number of factors, including general welfare and health of our community, circumstances of this past week related to the Goodwin Fire, Friday’s implementation of Stage II Fire Restrictions, a fatigue factor related to first responders across all disciplines and organizations, recent lifting of evacuation orders and their effects on our neighboring communities, and this past weekend’s wildfire events on Copper Basin and in Granite Dells Estates.” The decision was announced at the 11 a.m. stakeholders meeting for the Goodwin fire today.
Stage II Fire Restrictions mean no fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, and wood stoves, no smoking, no use of an explosive, no possessing, discharging, or using any type of fireworks. Fireworks or any kind are always prohibited during Stage II. For a complete definition of Stage II Restrictions, go to the US Forest Services’ website.
“With our community under Stage II Fire Restrictions, we are committed to leading by example,” said City Manager Michael Lamar. “We are acknowledging that the public is under significant, but necessary restrictions; and, we are voluntarily playing by the same rules.”
Prescott Fire and Police Departments jointly wish to remind the public that Stage II fire restrictions will be strictly enforced.
“It is of the essence that all citizens strictly adhere to the Stage II restrictions. We want this to be a safe and enjoyable Independence Day for everyone,” said Chief Light.
The event at Mile High Middle School will commence at 12 noon. There will be kids bounce houses, a beer garden, food vendors and live entertainment. General admission is $5. Bounce house passes are $10.