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Lightning storms have caused an increase in fire activity, keeping crews busy during the past few days. By Friday, more than 11 fires were reported in Millard and Juab counties, three requiring interagency assistance, according to the Bureau of Land Management.

At least 2,240 acres have burned, not including smaller fires that ignite and are squelched every hour.

Several of the fires have destroyed all vegetation in the areas where they burned, with plans to re-seed in the fall.

"The Interagency fire staff is continuously watching the weather in order to keep on top of these storms and is ready to respond to fires as soon as these storms start to move in," said Sherry Hirst, Fillmore BLM field office manager.

Due to extremely dry conditions and volatility of vegetation throughout the state, Utah State Forester Joel Frandsen has issued a ban on the use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices on all state lands.

The ban took effect at 12:01 a.m., June 30 2006, and will remain in effect until rescinded.

"It's only prudent to take this action at this time as evident by the number and size of wildland fires occurring on a daily basis in the state," said Frandsen. "Our wildlands right now are vulnerable to damaging and costly forest and range fires."

The use of fireworks are already prohibited on federal lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management and USDA Forest Service. This restriction order does not affect incorporated towns and cities and people are encouraged to check with local authorities concerning the use of fireworks in their communities.

Although the use of fireworks is restricted, the only general fire restriction order in effect at this time is in Washington County. Nevertheless, fire managers remind everyone to be especially diligent in their use of fire.

For further information see: www.utahfireinfo.gov.