Navajo Nation Issues Fire Safety Warning for Fourth of July Weekend

Published July 4, 2019

WINDOW ROCK — The Office of the President and Vice President and the Navajo Forestry Department urge the Navajo public and visitors to use extreme caution during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

“Despite more favorable weather conditions this year, drought conditions from previous years are still affecting the Nation.  We strongly urge everyone to take precautionary measures to ensure that you, your loved ones, and neighbors will be safe,” said President Nez.

On June 26, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Branch of Wildland Fire Management and Aviation elevated the Fire Danger Rating from low to moderate, indicating that fires can start from accidental causes. On Tuesday, the BIA also issued a wildfire notification caused by lightning approximately nine-miles northwest of Sawmill, Ariz. and residents are encouraged to avoid the wildfire area, including roads and trails.

Currently, there is no fire restriction in place on the Navajo Nation; however, the public is encouraged to comply with Navajo Nation law. Navajo Nation Law states that possessing, discharging, manufacturing, sale or use of fireworks or other pyrotechnic device is unlawful. Fireworks are only permitted at public exhibition shows with all required permits in possession.

The public is also advised to complete an Open Burn Registration form with the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency Air Quality Control Program for fire use activities, such as agriculture/forestry/silvicultural open burning or cultural and traditional fires.

“Every year, we look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, cookouts, and holidays; however, it also presents fire dangers and injuries due to fireworks and campfires. As a reminder, we ask everyone to practice fire safety and to be aware of your surroundings,” said Vice President Lizer.

For more information, contact the Navajo Forestry Department at (928) 729-4007. For Open Burn Registrations information, contact the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency Air Quality Program at (928) 729-4096. To report any wildland fires contact the Bureau of Indian Affairs Navajo Region Fire at (928) 729-2307.