Staff Writer
For the second year in a row, the Town of Pagosa Springs has cancelled it’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display due to high fire potential.
And local law enforcement will be patrolling over the holiday to ensure the county is devoid of all other fireworks, as well.
Both the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office and Pagosa Springs Police Department are stepping up the number of officers on duty on July 4 and 5, and both are taking a no-tolerance approach.
Both state and local law prohibit the possession and use of fireworks.
Colorado state statute prohibits fireworks that explode or leave the ground, and under the town’s municipal code, it is illegal to use, possess or explode any fireworks.
In Pagosa Springs, possession of fireworks can earn up to a $1,000 fine and one year in jail, noted PSPD Chief Bill Rockensock.
Rockensock said every PSPD officer will be on duty July 4 and 5, with Archuleta County Sheriff Pete Gonzalez and Undersheriff Rich Valdez noting that additional deputies will be on patrol over the holiday.
Both agencies are taking a zero-tolerance approach, meaning fireworks will be confiscated and those in possession may be cited should the situation dictate.
randi@pagosasun.com
