Following Gov. Spencer Cox’s executive order banning the use of fireworks throughout Utah on June 25, I issued an emergency order per UCA 53-2A-208 banning the use of all fireworks within Heber City, effective June 26. I collaborated with Chief Hales of the Wasatch County Fire District. He fel t that the Fire District could not provide adequate logistical support to city designated areas for fireworks. His final, thorough determination was different, but very prudent, given what was discussed at the Heber City Council meeting last week.  We all know that other fireworks bans are already in effect for the rest of Wasatch County and its cities, as well as Summit County and its cities, given the extreme fire danger and lack of moisture in our area.  We all want to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, yet let’s celebrate safely. This beautiful valley and the mountains protect us. Now we need to protect them. Plus, your safety is most important. Thank you for cooperating with this fireworks ban, given our extraordinary circumstances this year. Banning fireworks will let us all enjoy this wonderful holiday safely. Additionally, wildfires put all of us at risk. Wildfires put our electrical distribution and insurance costs at risk. The city’s already asked citizens to voluntarily cut back on outdoor watering given the ongoing drought. Wasatch County has already had red flag warnings this year. The recent rain is not enough. There are stiff fines for using fireworks with this ban. Let’s keep each other safe. Let’s not make our city’s situation worse. I encourage anyone to attend upcoming city festivities on July 2-4 at Main Street Park, Heber City.  On July 2, the Market on Main starts at 5 p.m.  On July 3 there will be a live concert and drone light show starting at 7 p,m.  July 4 starts early at 6 a.m. with airport balloon launches, 7 a.m. with the races and a Southfield Park pickleball tournament, plane flyovers, 7:45 a.m. flag ceremony, 8 a.m. pancake breakfast, an 8:45 a.m. patriotic walk and parade, with more games, live entertainment, the Freedom Train, and fun throughout the day.  Let’s all watch out for fires, smoke or injuries, and report them immediately to 911.  Citizens can report the illegal use of fireworks to non-emergency dispatch at 435-654-1411. Here are other fire safety guidelines from Wasatch County: No Open fires, except in approved permanent fire pits or designated developed recreation areas with pressurized water. No Smoking except in enclosed vehicles, buildings, or paved areas free of dry vegetation. No use of fireworks, tracer ammunition, and other pyrotechnic devices. No cutting, welding, or grinding metal in dry vegetation. No operating certain small engines without an approved spark arrestor. No dragging chains on or off-road. Check vehicle and trailer chains. Heber City will notify citizens about the fireworks ban by sending out citizen alerts, posting signage on major roads and at fireworks vendor locations. More information about this fireworks ban is also posted on the city’s website. Citizens can sign up for city alerts at:  https://www.heberut.gov/list.aspx?Mode=Subscribe. A safe and happy Fourth of July to all! Heidi Franco Heber City Mayor The post Let’s be safe appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less