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.