As the Fourth of July approaches, the Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) and Grand Junction Fire Department (GJFD) are reminding the community to celebrate responsibly and safely.

The Fourth of July is a time for family, friends, and fun—but it’s also one of the most dangerous times of the year due to increased fire risk and large public gatherings.

“With hot, dry weather conditions, the risk of fire is high,” said GJFD Fire Chief, Gus Hendricks. “Even small sparks can turn into major incidents. We’re asking everyone to do their part to help prevent fires this holiday and remember that Stage One fire restrictions are in place.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started over 31,000 fires in 2022. The Grand Junction Fire Department reminds all residents that Stage One fire restrictions are currently in place due to the extreme dry conditions in Mesa County.

Stage One Fire Restrictions Prohibit: 

• Personal use of ALL fireworks
• Any fire or campfire, not within a permanently constructed fire grate in a developed park, campground, private residence, or picnic area
• Agricultural burning within City limits
• Use of explosive targets
• Smoking outside near combustible materials
• Operating or using any internal combustion engine, such as chainsaws, without a spark-arresting device properly installed, maintained, and in effective working order
• Welding or operating Acetylene or other torches with an open flame except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter—You MUST have a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher

GJPD officers will be patrolling City parks throughout the holiday to promote safety and ensure community members are following local rules and regulations.

“This is a great time to come together as a community,” said GJPD Sergeant Stan Ancell, “but safety is everyone’s responsibility. Please be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions to protect others.”

Park Rules to Remember:

• City Park Hours: 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• All City of Grand Junction parks are smoke-free zones. Tobacco, marijuana, and vaping are prohibited.
• No glass containers or open flames are allowed.

Remember, due to Stage One fire restrictions, the personal use of all fireworks is prohibited. We want everyone to have a fun and memorable Fourth of July, but we also want it to be a safe one—for your family, your neighbors, and our first responders.

If you see illegal fireworks, unsafe behavior, or an emergency, call 911 immediately. Let’s work together to keep this holiday safe for everyone.

For more information about park rules, please contact Grand Junction Parks & Recreation at 970-254-3866.