Click here to view a pdf the changes in the Utah Fireworks Laws

For many in Utah, the use of fireworks has become a tradition.  The beautifully colored sparks fly though the air in concert with thunderous reports.

As exciting as this may seem, people often forget that they are playing with explosive materials, dangerous chemicals and combustibles that can destroy property, harm or cause death to unsuspecting victims.  These deceptively simple objects explode, throwing unburned powder, hot sparks and embers through the air at high velocities and often create temperatures hotter than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

In Utah from 2002 to 2006, 367 fireworks related fire incidents were reported, resulting in over $490,000 loss. The safest way to enjoy the thrill of fireworks, pyrotechnic displays and flame effects is to let the professionals handle these products and attend a public fireworks display, a concert where pyrotechnics react to show design, or professional community displays.

For fireworks enthusiasts who enjoy shooting their own this year, there have been some significant changes in Utah fireworks laws that go into effect this firework season.   Please, pay particular attention to safety recommendations and safety tips from manufacturers and retailers who sell fireworks.  Reading instructions this year will be significantly important and necessary to help reduce the chances of a destructive fire or debilitating injury.

* Purchase fireworks from reliable, licensed fireworks dealers. Read all instructions to reduce the chances of a destructive fire or debilitating injury.  Follow all safety guidelines exactly. * Children should not handle fireworks. You must be at least 16 years of age to handle or light fireworks.  Adults are to supervise any activity that includes fireworks.

* Never let children handle, play with or light fireworks. Only knowing and clear-headed adults should handle fireworks.

* Adults should never use alcohol or drugs or be impaired while engaged in handling, using, placing or lighting fireworks.

* New aerial type fireworks are now lawful. Aerial devices, also known as “multiple tube”, “repeater”, or “cake” fireworks often look like miniature professional displays and can travel high into the air, as much as 150 feet.* These fireworks need sufficient space from trees, carports, structures, power lines or other high or low obstacles. Aerial or “cake” fireworks need at least a 30 foot clearance around on the ground and at least 150 foot clearance in the air.

* Not allowed still are: firecrackers, M-80’s, cherry bombs, bottlerockets, roman candles, single or reloadable mortars, and ground salutes.  All local, state and federal laws must be adhered to. * Use common sense at all times when handling fireworks.  Do not alter, change or experiment with makeshift or any firework device and do not allow others to violate the law.

* Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.  Do not place fireworks in your pockets.

* Only use fireworks out of doors. Never play with, set or light fireworks under a carport or overhang, inside a building or compartment.

* Never shoot fireworks in windy conditions. * Keep a bucket of water or running hose nearby during the time of lighting and disposing of fireworks and in case of an emergency.

* Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks. Keep all unused fireworks 30 feet away from the shooting area.

* Make sure other people are out of range at a reasonable distance before lighting fireworks.  Do not point or throw fireworks at people, animals or where they may not be under proper control.  And remember, sparklers burn at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. They are extremely deceptive in nature and can be an extraordinarily dangerous device in the hands of children and can cause serious burns and injuries if not cared for properly.

* Light fireworks one at a time.  Do not attempt to light multiple fireworks at any time.  Do not relight a firework whose fuse has burned away.  Do not attempt to repair broken fireworks. Soak fireworks that did not ignite in a bucket of water. Once the firework is lit, get away quickly to a safe distance.

* Keep clear of the firework.  Never place a body part above or around a burning firework. Never pickup a burning firework. Never look into the tube or stay close to the burning end of the device. Never hold a lit firework in your hand.

* Use caution with animals.  Excitement, noise and lights can cause fear and stress.

Fireworks are an American tradition. Safety and common sense are so important as we celebrate the holidays with fireworks. Shooting fireworks can provide hours of wholesome family entertainment, but must be use carefully and safely

The first of the 2011 Cottonwood Heights Movie in the Park series.

Fun for the whole family, bounce rides, snacks and entertainment.

June 17th, 2011 7PM till… at Bywater Park 3149 East Banbury Rd, Cottonwood Heights UT 84121

Bring blankets, food, drinks and have fun

The first movie is “Megamind” an Animated Film starring the voices of Will Farrell, Brad Pitt and Tina Fey

Click here to view the embedded video.

They’re Back!

Thieves are stealing catalytic converters from cars. They get about $35-40 for the part because of the metals they contain.

According to Chief of Police Robby Russo’s statement in the Deseret News, these thefts are often drug related.

They are what is called crimes of opportunity.

Thieves attack park n ride lots where skiers park. They know you are gone for at least half the day. It takes a minute to roll under a car with a sawzall and cut the part right out.

The city wants to put up security cameras, but needs to look for the funding first.

Bywater Park Gets a Water Slide

Some neighborhood Kids build a water slide at Bywater Park.

Very simple, a roll of visquene, a water hose and some soap.

Happy Birthday Chris

A good time was had by all. Chris’s 8th Birthday party at Bywater Park.

The kids played in the playground, we opened lots of gifts, sang happy birthday.

Of course what would a birthday party for an eight year old be without a Phineas and Ferb birthday cake?

W00t w00t

They are back, the third annual Cottonwood Heights Movies in the Park.

Friday August 13th 7:00pm the fun for the whole family begins.

Inflatable Rides, Scales and Tails begins at 8:00pm

Then the movie Monsters Vs Aliens begins at dusk

The first of three shows will be at
Mount View Elementary School
1651 East Fort Union Blvd
Cottonwood Heights UT 84121

The best part is it’s F R E E

Carolyn Stewart of an agent for a Cottonwood Heights Real Estate Firm had an idea of raising 800 pounds of peanut butter for the Utah Food Bank. With the help of her associates and affiliates we raised over a ton. What an awesome thing!

They are back, the third annual Cottonwood Heights Movies in the Park.

Friday July 16th 7:00pm the fun for the whole family begins.

Inflatable Rides, Scales and Tails begins at 8:00pm

Then the movie Cloudy With A Chance With Meatballs begins at dusk

The first of three shows will be at
Mill Hollow Park
2900 E Mill Hollow Drive
Cottonwood Heights UT 84121

The best part is it’s F R E E

Watch for future shows

August 13th

Being part of Cottonwood Heights Neighborhood Watch I have learned one of those obvious BUT because I am not the criminal type it has never occurred to me.

What happens everyday in the spring around 3:00PM?

There is a lot of activity in the neighborhood cars coming and going dropping kids off. There is a hustle and bustle going on.

Then garage doors are up and kids are getting on bikes and taking off.

It is very easy for folks to drive down the street and spot golf clubs, skis, archery, tools and other expensive items that are easily grabbed and gone. It happens so quick and the hustle and bustle is the perfect distraction.

If you see suspicious cars going through the neighborhood slow CALL the Cottonwood Heights Police Dispatch 801-840-4000 or 9-1-1 if there is a crime in progress.

When calling the Cottonwood Heights Police the key is to get as much detail as possible. How many people in the vehicle, race, gender, any article of clothing especially color and the direction they are headed. Another key factor is to not let on you are calling, they will leave the area quickly.