A San Bernardino County multi-agency task force led by County Fire Investigators seized 7,500 pounds of dangerous and illegal fireworks during operations conducted June 3 and 4. Fire investigators issued 40 citations totaling $50,000 in fines for possession of illegal fireworks. With our county facing a dangerous wildland fire season, County Fire is partnering with law enforcement to increase its vigilance in enforcing state and county firework laws to protect public health and safety. Fire officials will be issuing citations for the illegal use, possession, or storage 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. Here in the Morongo Basin, all fireworks, even the so-called “Safe and Sane” are illegal. County Fire encourages residents to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy local shows planned for both Twentynine Palms and Yucca Valley. Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks to local authorities.
