Burn bans affects Southern Colorado firework business

With dry and hot conditions in the state, firework stands are closing shop and Fourth of July shows across Southern Colorado are being canceled.

But the burn ban hasn’t stopped people from trying to find the few places still open, because for many, fireworks and Independence Day go hand-in-hand.

“I’ve had fireworks for Fourth of July ever since I can remember,” said PJ Williams from Colorado Springs.

This year, sales are non-existent in Pueblo and El Paso counties because of a stage-two burn ban. Many towns have also canceled their fireworks shows.

“There’s none anywhere in the surrounding areas around the Springs,” Williams said.

That ban prohibits anyone from selling, buying or even having fireworks.

“My family owns Collins Firework and they weren’t able to open up their stands because of it,” said Kyler Humes.

A few miles down the road, Douglas County is under a stage-one burn ban, meaning Tom Witherell is still able to keep his family’s business open.

“We are allowed to sell, but at this time people are not allowed to light fireworks,” Witherell said.

Restrictions like these complicate an otherwise bright business.

“[It] definitely puts a strain on all the plans we have every year,” said Humes.

But customers like Williams are determined to make this Fourth of July a hit.

“[I’m] definitely going to light them off,” said Williams. “But knowing there’s a burn ban in effect, I’ll probably keep some water around or a hose to make sure if there is a fire that starts, I’ll just put it out right away so it doesn’t turn into another Waldo Canyon.”

Violations of the fire restrictions can result in fines up to $1,000 and possible jail time.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department will be doing patrols around the area to make sure people are following these restrictions and are being safe.