Traverse Mountain Residents Make Their Own Fireworks Restriction Signs

LEHI, Utah – Nearly three weeks have passed since the Traverse Fire, started by fireworks, came dangerously close to hundreds of homes in Lehi.

Now residents in that community are taking safety measures into their own hands as Pioneer Day approaches and fireworks will be legal again.

“I love fireworks, I’ll be the first one to say I grew up in Wyoming, fireworks are just the thing right, but we just want to say, do it where it is legal, and don’t threaten our homes, please,” said Brandon Robins, a Canyon Hills resident.

Fireworks are not allowed in the Canyon Hills neighborhood of Lehi, but there is a lack of signage. Those impacted by the #traversefire are now putting up their own fireworks restriction signs as the 24th approaches. Details on @KSL5TV #wildfire #Fireworks pic.twitter.com/6YWjeAiPpU

— Felicia Martinez (@FeliciaKSL) July 16, 2020

Brandon Robins, a member of the HOA, made nearly two dozen signs as a reminder that fireworks are prohibited in their community after the Traverse Fire caused residents in hundreds of homes to evacuate in the middle of the night.

Robins said even though fireworks are illegal in their area north of Timpanogos Highway, the neighborhood lacks in signage.

“They have put up more in recent years, but because it’s new I think that’s why,” said Robins.

Lehi City officials said they are working on putting up more visible signage before Pioneer Day. But for now, community members were putting up their own to warn others who may not be familiar.

“Most of the neighbors here are aware of the fire risk now because we just lived through it, but for people coming up because we do have incredible views up here, you can see fireworks throughout the valley, which is amazing, and people come up here to celebrate, and I just don’t think they know,” said Robins.

Fireworks are illegal in Utah until July 22, but even then there are restrictions to be familiar with before lighting off.