Stay safe this Fourth of July using these guidelines from Tulare County firefighters

Sheyanne N Romero, Visalia Times-Delta
Updated ·3 min read

Fourth of July celebrations are quickly approaching, which means Tulare County residents will soon see the night sky light up with fireworks.

With that in mind, local fire departments have teamed up to remind residents that only Safe and Sane Fireworks, purchased at approved fireworks booths throughout the county and cities, are legal.

From now through Fourth of July, a countywide public outreach and education campaign, “It’s Just Not Worth It, Skip the Fine.” The focus of the campaign is enforcement efforts. Residents are encouraged to report the use of illegal fireworks to their city or town officials.

"With the amount of rain, we received this year in the valley and the growth of seasonal grasses and vegetation, the potential of fireworks starting a fire is extremely high," Tulare County Fire Capt. Joanne Bear stated in a June press release. "The combination of hot and dry weather, dry grass, and fireworks can lead to devastating fires."

During last year's campaign, firefighters seized tens of thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks.

Illegal fireworks are defined as anything launched into the air, explodes, or items such as firecrackers. California has "zero tolerance" for the sale and use of illegal fireworks, which include:

  • Skyrockets

  • Bottle rockets

  • Roman candles

  • Aerial shells

  • Firecrackers

  • Other fireworks that explode go into the air or uncontrollably move on the ground.

Tulare County residents caught with illegal fireworks face fines for using, possessing, storing, or selling illegal fireworks. Penalties for selling or using illegal fireworks can reach up to $50,000 and include jail time.

What are Safe and Sane Fireworks?

California State Fire Marshal-approved fireworks usually mean fireworks that do not fly or explode. Safe and Sane fireworks are also sold at authorized booths.

These booths are allowed to sell state-approved fireworks from June 28 to July 6.

In Visalia, 25 permitted fireworks booths are run by non-profit organizations that meet specific guidelines. To find a list of approved fireworks booths, visit the city's website.

"I ask that the city of Visalia commit to celebrating the Fourth of July safely," Visalia Fire Chief Dan Griswold said. "The holiday presents some unique risks to our community. Using illegal fireworks in Visalia is a high-risk activity that can potentially cause significant damage to property, serious injury, and even the loss of life."

This year, there was a report of a severe hand injury due to illegal fireworks in the county. In 2021, two people lost their hands to illegal fireworks in Tulare County, according to county firefighters.

Firework safety tips:

  • Always read directions.

  • Always have an adult present.

  • Use fireworks outdoors only.

  • Never use near dry grass or other flammable materials.

  • Light one at a time.

  • Keep a safe distance.

  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

  • Never experiment with fireworks.

  • Have a bucket of water and a hose handy.

  • Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks.

  • Do not wear loose-fitting clothing.

  • Never carry fireworks in your pockets.

  • Fireworks are not toys.

  • Use only State Fire Marshal-approved fireworks.

"We would like to see everyone have a safe and happy holiday as we gather to celebrate Independence Day," Bear stated. "Please practice safe use of fireworks and watch your children, as things can happen in a split second."

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Use these firework guidelines from Tulare County firefighters