Cal Fire

Sacramento, CA – Often times, when people think of summer, they think of backyard parties and, of course, fireworks. It can be fun to watch the colorful display of sparkling lights in a dark sky, but fireworks can also cause serious harm if they are not handled carefully and correctly. CAL FIRE would like to remind all Californians about firework safety.

“Every year, many families are negatively impacted by the misuse and/or illegal use of fireworks,” said Chief Tonya Hoover, California’s State Fire Marshal. “Fire departments respond to devastating and costly fires and serious life-threatening injuries caused by fireworks, while local hospitals treat hundreds of injuries as a result of unsafe fireworks uses.”

Illegal fireworks include 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. CAL FIRE continues to work with local law enforcement agencies to seize illegal fireworks and prosecute those who possess them. If you are convicted, you could be fined up to $50,000 as well as sent to prison or jail for up to one year.

State Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks are currently permitted in 290 communities throughout the state. CAL FIRE wants to remind those who choose to purchase these fireworks to be sure they carry the “Safe and Sane” State Fire Marshal seal and are only used in the community where they are purchased. It is illegal to sell, transport, or use any fireworks in areas where they are not allowed. Even “Safe and Sane” fireworks can be dangerous if used in an unsafe manner.

CAL FIRE offers these tips when handling fireworks:

Be sure the fireworks are permitted in your area
If permitted in your area, be sure the fireworks carry the State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal.
Only purchase from legitimate organizations that are authorized to sell fireworks.
Have water or sand available at the firing site.
Read and abide by all instructions.
Soak fireworks in water after usage.
Do not alter, modify, or enhance fireworks in any way.
Be sure the fireworks are away from flammable materials, such as dry vegetation.
Never let children light or play with fireworks.

For more information about safe firework use, visit: www.fire.ca.gov.