Ban the Bang! Emergency Ban on Fireworks in New Mexico

Every year, we brace ourselves for the fireworks season in New Mexico, a time that for many is filled with celebration and joy. However, for our community, it represents the shadow of potential tragedy. 

Our beautiful state, known for its arid landscapes and dry conditions, is particularly vulnerable to fires. Fireworks, no matter how small or seemingly harmless, pose an undeniable risk — sparking fires that can consume thousands of acres, destroy homes, and endanger lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fireworks start an average of 19,500 fires annually. In a state like New Mexico, where drought conditions are prevalent, this risk is magnified even further.

In recent years, we have experienced multiple incidents where unregulated fireworks have led to wildfires, resulting in significant loss and trauma for those affected. These fires not only ravage our land but also displace wildlife and strain our already limited emergency services. It is imperative that we act now to prevent further calamities.

We call upon local authorities and state legislators to implement an immediate emergency ban on fireworks across New Mexico. This proactive measure is necessary to safeguard our communities during the high-risk fire season. Additionally, enforcing strict penalties for violations will serve as a deterrent against illegal fireworks usage.

As residents who care deeply about our home and environment, we must prioritize safety and protection over tradition. Let's rally together and urge our policymakers to take swift and decisive action. Please sign this petition to demand an emergency ban on fireworks in New Mexico, protecting our communities, our wildlife, and our heritage from the threat of uncontrollable fires. 

There are other responsible ways people can have fun. There are too many risks involved that can't be justified in any reasonable community that claims they care about the people. 

Albuquerque Fire Rescue said that on July 1 there were 16 outside fires. Then the next 2 days there were about 24. Then the 3rd, 4th and 5th jumped up to 70 outside fires caused by fireworks.  

AFR responded to 877 fireworks calls on July 4, compared to 490 last year. This high volume of calls resulted in three separate fires throughout the city. One in the foothills on Menaul and Monte Largo, a brush fire in the Bosque at Tingley Beach at Alcade, and another at a house in Taylor Ranch on Arabian Drive. Firefighters confirmed the one in the foothills was fireworks-caused, as they found remnants around the scene.

Fireworks started an estimated 34,079 fires in 2024, including 3,246 structure fires, 857 vehicle fires, 29,517 outside fires, and 459 unclassified fires. These fires caused an estimated 59 civilian injuries and $98 million in direct property damage. There were not reported civilian deaths.

In 2024, U.S hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 14,700 people for fireworks related injuries.
Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for 

32% of the estimated 2023 injuries. These injury estimates were obtained or derived from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2023 Fireworks Annual Report.

On the state level, House Bill 155 was introduced co sponsored by three House lawmakers, Meredith Dixon (D-Albuquerque), Joy Garratt (D-Albuquerque), and Anthony Thornton (R-Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Sandoval, and Torrance counties), but it did not even get a committee hearing. This petition can help lawmakers make the responsible changes our communities need.