The summer season brings a number of fireworks vendors to Gallup. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic, people are demonstrating the desire to leave their homes to enjoy the warm weather.
But across the region, drought is a concern especially during the summer. While fireworks can bring fun to local events and gatherings, they can also be a fire danger if the nearby vegetation is too dry.
Fire Chief Jesus Morales gave the presentation to the Gallup City Council during their May 26 meeting to determine how they should monitor local drought conditions before determining whether or not to ban the sale of certain fireworks.
Morales also mentioned the potential impact of the pandemic.
“Since March, it seems our world has been turned upside down, but now as we enter June, there’s a bit of a light at the end of the tunnel with efforts in progress to reopen,” Morales said.
Currently, fireworks can be sold at retail outlets between June 20 and July 6, as well as around New Year’s Day.
The June and July window is significant because that is when weather conditions are monitored, Morales said.
“If we find the drought conditions are in place within city boundaries, it’s going to be important we go back to the council for their June 9 meeting, so we can potentially restrict sales of certain fireworks,” he said.
The restriction would be in place for 30 days from adoption, and could be rescinded or extended with an emergency meeting. Per the ordinance, the city may only ban missile-type rockets, helicopters or aerial spinners, stick-type rockets, chasers, and firecrackers.
The city council will take action on a potential ban during their June 9 meeting.
By Cody Begaye
Sun Correspondent
