The celebration of our nation's birth is a gala event usually highlighted by spectacular fireworks displays; but not on any federally managed lands in the state of Nevada.

This year like every year in the past, fireworks of any type are prohibited in the National Park System and that includes Lake Mead National Recreation Area. In addition, it includes the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex and those lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

"Fireworks cause many structural and wildfires each year," says Dale Antonich, Lake Mead NRA chief ranger. "Once again, we will be diligent in enforcing the nationwide prohibition against fireworks in the park."

Antonich noted the especially dry conditions in the Las Vegas area that will mean extra care and caution on the part of all visitors, especially those camping and cooking. Other concerns are devices such as matches and cigarettes.

"One careless act can cause a raging fire," said Antonich. "These fires traditionally cost millions of dollars to contain and destroy public lands and private homes."

He urged all residents and visitors alike to do whatever is necessary to help prevent structural and wildfires while visiting public lands this summer.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a unit of the National Park Service, headquartered in Boulder City, Nev.

For further information, please contact:

Bert Byers
Public Affairs Officer
Lake Mead NRA

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