Fireworks and Fire ban

JeffCo Fireworks Facts; Fireworks Scare Dogs

While they’re fun for humans, the loud, unexpected sounds of fireworks cause stress and anxiety for a lot of dogs. Before July 4th rolls around, here are some things to know about why your dog gets anxious and what you can do to help. Your dog has keen senses that make fireworks a more intense experience. Your dog’s acute hearing makes him more sensitive to the sounds of fireworks than you are. During fireworks, your dog experiences the same kind of startled response you do when you’re surprised by a loud noise. This may mean an increase in heart rate, a rush of adrenaline, and an increase in stress hormones circulating through the body. For your dog, fireworks aren’t the same experience as a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms come with a lot of warning signs, like changes in barometric pressure and high winds, so dogs anticipate them. Since fireworks are sudden and occur less frequently than thunderstorms, dogs might be more intimidated by them. Create a special area in your home where your dog can feel safe and secure during the noise. If your dog is crate trained then he may feel most secure in his create with a nice chew toy. If he’s not crate-trained, putting him to bed in a calm place during the fireworks might work. Try closing the windows and playing some music. Help your dog feel happy during fireworks. Why not give your dog a special treat or his favorite toy? It might help to create positive associations with fireworks. Calming wraps and thundershirts may help for some dogs, too. These work like swaddling does for infants – they make your dog feel secure during stressful situations. The most important thing you can do is stay calm. Making a big fuss around the dog only reassures him that there is a good reason to panic. “Dogs look at us for reassurance so showing them that we are calm and relaxed is likely to help the dog understand that there is no real danger." Source: https://www.purina.com/…/why-are-dogs-scared-of-fireworks-1… Want more details about what's legal in JeffCo? Here you go: Any device that explodes or leaves the ground is most likely illegal in Colorado. Illegal fireworks include but are not limited to firecrackers, cherry bombs, bottle rockets, M-80’s and Roman candles. It is illegal to sell, use or possess non-permissible fireworks in unincorporated Jefferson County. Additionally, all fireworks are prohibited in Jeffco Open Space, CO, Denver Mountain Parks and Forest Service lands. Colorado law defines permissible fireworks as any device that does not explode or leave the ground. Examples of permissible fireworks are cylindrical or cone fountains, sparklers, toy smoke devices, snakes and glow worms. Keep in mind; while permissible fireworks may seem harmless, they continue to account for many fireworks-related injuries each year. To report illegal fireworks, residents may call the Jefferson County fireworks hotline at 303-271-8200. Jefferson County deputies will strictly enforce illegal fireworks violations in the unincorporated areas of the county this coming holiday. Any person who violates the laws pertaining to the sale, possession and use of fireworks commits a class three misdemeanor and may face a fine of up to $750. For more information on fireworks safety, visit our Web site at http://jeffco.us/sheriff/ Please share this information with your neighbors, friends, family. We will be posting fireworks safety facts and tips daily through July 4.

Since dogs are afraid of fireworks and Park County has a fire ban, please be responsible and find a big authorized fireworks display if you want to celebrate with fireworks. Please help keep our animals and mountain community safe!