As the U.S. prepares for its 250th anniversary Fourth of July celebrations, officials across the West are urging families to skip backyard fireworks as extreme wildfire danger prompts widespread restrictions.
Utah has imposed a statewide ban on personal fireworks, while governors in Colorado and New Mexico have urged caution. Cities and counties across the Southwest, Oregon and Washington have also introduced restrictions or canceled displays. Professional fireworks shows, however, are still scheduled nationwide, from Mount Rushmore to Washington, D.C.
