FORT LUPTON — The red glare across Colorado this summer is being supplied by wildfires, not fireworks.
    That will remain true for the foreseeable future following Gov. John Hickenlooper’s signing of an executive order banning open burning and private use of fireworks statewide.
    While most counties across the state already have fire bans in place, Hickenlooper took action June 14 because of the high fire danger posed by the dry conditions statewide.
    “We can’t completely eliminate the threat of wildfire because there’s no way to control Mother Nature,” Hickenlooper said in a release. “But we can take steps to reduce the risks of more wildfires starting. This ban is a necessary step to help protect people, property and the beautiful state we live in.”
    Not included in the ban are campfires in designated pits or grates, liquid- and gas-fueled stoves, in-home fireplaces, charcoal grills and prescribed burns for farm and irrigation purposes.
    As for July 4 celebrations, professional displays operated commercially or for municipal celebrations will require the written approval of the county sheriff.
    According to the governor’s office, about 44 of Colorado’s 64 counties are listed as having “high,” “very high” or “extreme” wildfire danger. Both Adams and Weld counties installed fire bans prior to the governor’s executive order. Adams County was listed as “high” danger of wildfire as of June 17, while Weld County’s risk was listed as “very high.”