25,000+ lbs of Illegal Fireworks
The San Bernardino County Fire Department Office of
the Fire Marshal has confiscated more than 25,000 pounds of illegal
fireworks, just this June. Seven days of operations resulted in San Bernardino
County Fire Investigators issuing 116 citations totaling $145,000 in fines.
Investigations conducted
along the Interstate 15 Agriculture Inspection Station in Yermo, found Los
Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties as among the top three regions that
fireworks were being smuggled into the respective counties.
With San Bernardino County facing a dangerous wild-land
fire season, the San Bernardino County
Fire Department (SBCoFD) has increased its vigilance in enforcing state and
county firework laws to protect public health and safety. Fire Officials are issuing citations for the illegal use of
fireworks, with fines
up to $1,250 for the first offense with the possibility of arrest.
Property owners may be cited if they allow fireworks to be possessed, stored or
used on their property.
All fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or move along
the ground are termed dangerous and are illegal anywhere in California. “Safe and Sane”
fireworks are only allowed in the following cities: Adelanto, Barstow, Chino,
Colton, and Rialto, as well as specific locations in Fontana, Grand Terrace,
and San Bernardino. Please call the fire department in these cities for more
information. All fireworks are illegal elsewhere in the county.
SBCoFD encourages
residents to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy a local show in
your community. A schedule of public firework shows in San Bernardino County
can be found at sbcfire.org.
When using fireworks
where allowed, SBCoFD offers some safety tips:
Ö Always use fireworks (Safe and Sane only) with an adult
present.
Ö Even a Safe and Sane sparkler burns at a temperature that ignites
clothing easily
Ö Always read and follow label directions
Ö Always have water (garden hose/bucket) and a fire
extinguisher within reach
Ö Always place fireworks on a firm, non-combustible
surface, like a sidewalk or pavement ü Never alter fireworks
Ö Never re-light
dud fireworks
Ö Homemade
fireworks are often deadly; leave the making of fireworks to the experts
Ö Never point, throw or mishandle fireworks
San
Bernardino County Fire Department
encourages
residents to report the possession or
use
of illegal fireworks to 1-800-47-ARSON.