With wildfires burning across Arizona and drought conditions persisting, some cities are waiting until the last minute to decide whether to light the fuse on Fourth of July fireworks.
"We're hoping for it," said Talie Cluff, office manager at the fire department in Show Low, whose fireworks plans are pending the mayor's approval. "That's one of the things everyone looks forward to. It's a tradition and we're a small town."
However, it only takes a glimpse at the Aspen fire on Mount Lemmon or the memory of last year's 469,000-acre Rodeo-Chediski fire to realize what could happen if embers from the fireworks don't burn out before they reach the ground or land in dry brush.
While Phoenix and Tucson are planning to host Fourth of July celebrations complete with fireworks, cities such as Show Low, Flagstaff and Oro Valley have yet to approve the permits for the displays. Last year, many fireworks shows were canceled due to wildfires and dry conditions.
"Weather can change dramatically between now and the Fourth of July," Flagstaff Fire Chief Mike Iacona said. "A decision won't be made until the last moment. You certainly don't want to create a hazardous event from an event that should be enjoyable and positive."
Near Tucson, the SaddleBrooke Homeowners Association 1 voluntarily scrapped their plans for fireworks in light of the Aspen fire, which has raged above the community.
"Safety is paramount," said Sharon Hanson, director of operations at the association. "We just felt so strong it's not the right time, it's far too arid and a potential problem there."
In Tucson, officials will prepare for the displays by wetting grass and using firefighting foam in areas surrounding Tucson Electric Park and "A" Mountain, where fireworks displays are scheduled. Firefighters, engines and water tenders will also be on standby at these sites.
"Fire hazard-wise, it doesn't look like it's an issue, but we can cancel at the last minute" if the weather isn't cooperative, said Randy Ogden, deputy chief of the Tucson Fire Department.
Ogden said monitoring the fireworks displays won't strain fire resources. Illegal fireworks are more of a problem, he said.
"They're (illegal fireworks) done by unprofessionals and involved with people who are drinking and partying," Ogden said. "A lot of people use sparklers that seem to be safe, but they burn at 1,200 degrees. If you drop them into a bush or poke a child's eye, you can cause significant injury."
Some communities and private venues are already seeking alternatives to fireworks. Officials at the Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Golf and Tennis Resort in Oro Valley are looking into laser light shows as they wait for the OK to use fireworks.
"The use of lasers is always a good backup for fireworks because they don't present the fire hazard," said Shawn McGowan, a resort official. "The effect is probably not quite as spectacular but it does present an alternative."
