(Clive, IA) -- The Clive Fire Department says it appears someone lighting off fireworks caused a large grass fire in Clive's Greenbelt Park. Crews were called out yesterday (Thursday) afternoon around 4 o'clock to an area south of Hickman Road and west of 100th Street. Firefighters were able to put out the fire before it spread to adjacent woods and buildings. Used and unused fireworks were found at the scene.
The fire consumed roughly three-quarters of an acre of prairie.
Clive Fire Chief Clay Garcia warned that the situation could have been dangerous and expressed gratitude no one was hurt. “We’re lucky this wasn’t much worse. There are dangerous fire conditions across Iowa right now, and a grass fire can quickly get out of control and spread.”
Using fireworks in Clive is illegal, except for novelties like sparklers.
“Whether or not it was an accident, this fire could have quickly damaged our park and nearby buildings or harmed people,” said Garcia. “Tell your children, friends, and neighbors—never use illegal fireworks in Clive, and exercise extreme caution with open flames and sparks.”
The Clive Police Department and Fire Department are investigating the fire.