LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — With the Independence Day holiday rapidly approaching, Cal Fire is reminding all Californians and visitors to do their part to prevent fires caused by illegal fireworks or the misuse of “safe and sane” fireworks.
On Monday, “safe and sane” fireworks will go on sale in approximately 300 communities throughout California.
In Lake County, safe and sane fireworks are only allowed in the city of Lakeport, and can only be discharged from July 1 to 4, said Lakeport Police Chief Brad Rasmussen.
There are also legal ramifications when it comes to certain types of fireworks.
Possession or transportation of illegal fireworks such as sky-rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers and other types that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner can lead to a possible fine of up to $50,000 as well as prison time or jail for up to one year.
Even safe and sane fireworks taken into a city or county where they are banned are considered Illegal.
All fireworks are banned in State Responsibility Area in Colusa, Lake, Napa, Sonoma, Yolo and Solano counties.
In California, there is zero tolerance for the use and sale of illegal fireworks. It is your responsibility to check with your local ordinance regarding the use of fireworks.
Any person who causes a fire, including those started with safe and sane fireworks, can be held liable for the costs of its suppression and associated property damage. Often these costs are in the hundreds of thousands and sometimes millions of dollars.
Fireworks guidelines:
— First check if fireworks are allowed in your community.
— Make sure the firework has the State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal.
— Counterfeit labels do exist, only make purchases from trustworthy vendors.
— Purchase only from legitimate organizations authorized to sell within California.
— Have a bucket of water, sand or garden hose available at the firing site.
— Read all instructions before use.
— Never alter, modify or enhance fireworks — use only in the manner intended.
— Make sure fireworks have proper clearance from flammable materials including dry grass and brush.
Click here for a full fireworks safety guide.
Fire officials urge extreme caution as 'safe and sane' fireworks go on sale
- Lake County News reports
- Posted On