County Commission enacts temporary fire safety resolution for parks amid rising concerns

In a pivotal meeting on June 23, 2021, the Utah County Commission addressed significant fire safety concerns related to open pit fires in county parks. The discussion highlighted the need for a more restrictive policy to mitigate fire risks, particularly in areas prone to high winds, such as the Smash Fork and Diamond Fork regions.

Commissioners expressed their apprehension about the potential dangers posed by open flames in these parks, emphasizing that fire regulations should not merely mirror those of state and national parks but could be tailored to the unique conditions of county parks. One commissioner noted, “We could have a more restrictive policy for our county parks because they are county parks,” underscoring the importance of local governance in fire safety measures.

The commission also discussed exemptions for on-duty and off-duty firefighters and law enforcement officers, ensuring they would not face penalties while performing their duties. A friendly amendment was proposed to include off-duty personnel in these exemptions, which was accepted and incorporated into the motion.

The resolution passed unanimously, but it is set to be evaluated in 30 days, allowing for adjustments based on its effectiveness. To inform the public, the commission plans to post signs in the parks and issue a press release detailing the new regulations.

This proactive approach aims to enhance safety in county parks while balancing the rights of individuals to engage in recreational shooting in designated areas. The commission's commitment to public safety and community engagement will be crucial as they monitor the impact of these new regulations in the coming month.