A county task force set up checkpoints along Interstate 15 over three weekends to look for illegal fireworks being brought into San Bernardino County. Rebecca Havely says the checkpoints resulted in 30 tons of seized fireworks, and more than $90,000 in fines…
County fire investigators seized more than 60,000 pounds of illegal fireworks that were being brought into the county over three weekends. The Fireworks Interdiction Task Force also issued 73 citations resulting in $91,250 in fines. A fine of $1,250 is the penalty for a first offense and includes the possibility of arrest. All confiscated fireworks are turned over to the State Fire Marshal’s Office for destruction. Under California law, all fireworks that explode, shoot into the air, or move along the ground are considered dangerous and are illegal to possess without a permit. That includes firecrackers, skyrockets, roman candles, mortars and “chasers” that dart along the ground, and safe and sane fireworks that have been modified.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, on a typical 4th of July, fireworks cause more fires in the U.S. than all other causes combined. In addition to fires, fireworks cause deaths, blindness, maiming injuries to children and adults, re-traumatize war veterans suffering from PTSD, and frighten household pets.
“The San Bernardino County Fire Department will remain vigilant each and every year to protect our communities from the risks associated with dangerous fireworks,” Fire Marshal Mike Horton said. “With San Bernardino County facing another dangerous wildland fire season, San Bernardino County Fire will remain vigilant in protecting public health and safety. We want to thank the public for helping us stop those that would attempt to smuggle these dangerous explosives into the county. If you see something, say something. Call the We-Tip Hotline at 800-47-ARSON (800-472-7766) or visit WeTip.com.”
