Fire danger is real

The 4th of July, Independence Day, is a day to celebrate our nation’s freedom, and the postponement of a fireworks display by the Newcastle Volunteer Fire Department was a disappointment to many. The reason for the delay was the number of fires in the area that took priority for the volunteer firefighters (see story on page 1). Some of those fires were caused by lightning strikes, but fireworks were the cause of the majority.
Prior to the 4th a fireworks ban had been placed for Weston County, but not for within Newcastle’s city limits. It was hoped that, with the extreme heat and hazardous fire conditions, residents would be vigilant and use caution when lighting fireworks. Apparently, though, people weren’t cautious enough.
Weston County is currently under an open burn restriction and has been for more than two weeks. Weston County Fire Warden Daniel Tysdal said at the time that the risk of fire in the area was high, and conditions are continuing to deteriorate. 
Residents within Newcastle City limits need to be just as cautious when it comes to activities that could potentially start fires, despite the Newcastle City Council failing to implement a burn ban. 
With another red flag warning on Tuesday, July 7, following a weekend with 15 fires in 24 hours and projected high temperatures for the foreseeable future, it is crucial that the public is as aware as possible. We all know what can happen when fires creep too close to communities and homes and livelihoods are at stake. 
Let’s work together to keep our community safe so everyone can enjoy a delayed fireworks display, tentatively this weekend.
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