Most fireworks illegal in Wisconsins forests and parks
MADISON -- The Fourth of July weekend is a time of celebration and tradition, but one tradition that park rangers and forest fire prevention specialists would not like to see is the use of fireworks in state parks and forests.
Fireworks are illegal in Wisconsin state parks and forests, according to Jason Fritz, chief ranger for the Wisconsin State Parks program.
“For the safety of our guests and our resources, our rangers strictly enforce the no fireworks laws,” Fritz said. “Fourth of July favorites, the sparkler and the snake, are not defined as ‘fireworks’ per Wisconsin state law, but most park and forest rangers and superintendents would rather not see them at all because they are a fire hazard.”
A citation for illegal fireworks in a state park or forest can cost the lawbreaker up to $200 and parents could be liable for the full costs of putting out a fire started by their children playing with or setting off fireworks.
In fact, anyone responsible for starting a forest fire in Wisconsin is liable not only for the cost of putting the fire out but also for any damages, notes Catherine Regan, forest fire prevention specialist with the DNR Division of Forestry.
As of the last week of June, fire dangers levels throughout Wisconsin were low across the state, but even in low fire danger times, fireworks can start wildfires. So far in 2008, DNR records show 472 fires have burned nearly 400 acres in Wisconsin.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jason Fritz, Wisconsin State Parks - (608) 266-2152 or Catherine Regan, DNR forest fire prevention specialist – (608) 264-6032
