Sacramento, CA…CAL FIRE would like to remind all Californians that there is no tolerance when it comes to illegal fireworks. The sale, transport, or use of fireworks without the “Office of the State Fire Marshal Safe and Sane” seal is illegal, as is possessing or using any fireworks in communities where they are not allowed. Violators face potential fines up to $50,000 as well as a year in jail.

“We all must do our part to keep Fourth of July fun and safe. I ask all Californians to use common sense and practice safety when lighting fireworks to celebrate. Our message is clear: illegal fireworks won’t be tolerated, and you will be prosecuted. They run the risk of starting dangerous fires in the peak of our fire season,” said Governor Gavin Newsom in a news release distributed this morning.

Over the past several months, CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal’s specialized Arson and Bomb Investigators have been aiding local and federal illegal fireworks enforcement efforts.

Illegal fireworks include:

Skyrockets
Bottle rockets
Roman candles
Aerial shells
Firecrackers
Sparklers
Other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner.

“Already this year our Arson and Bomb Investigators, along with our partners, have successfully seized over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from all over California,” said State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant. “Our recent enforcement efforts clearly demonstrate our zero tolerance toward the use, transportation, and possession of illegal fireworks. Even ‘Safe and Sane’ fireworks are banned in many communities and bring large fines for their illegal use.”

For a fun and safe Fourth of July, know your local fireworks laws. Some California communities ban all fireworks, while others allow certain “Safe and Sane” fireworks.

It is best to leave fireworks to the experts. Attend a professional public display conducted by licensed pyrotechnic operators, certified by CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal.

To learn more about fireworks safety and to view a full list of jurisdictions that allow the sale of Safe and Sane fireworks, visit readyforwildfire.org/prevent-wildfire/fireworks-safety/.

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