Fourth of July: Which valley cities allow safe and sane fireworks?
Fourth of July celebrations are in the works across the Coachella Valley. However, only three valley cities allow safe and sane fireworks: Indio, Coachella, and Desert Hot Springs.
If a firework does not have the safe and sane label pictured below, it is considered illegal in California.
Ben Guitron with the Indio Police Department said you can be fined up to $1,500 for having illegal fireworks.
"The last few years, we've noticed that there's been an increase of people using illegal fireworks, not just during this time, but sometimes throughout the year," said Guitron. "Make the right choice. Respect your communities and your neighbors, and everything will be fine."
In 2022, CAL FIRE Riverside County confiscated about 5,500 pounds of illegal fireworks. According to CAL FIRE, California has zero tolerance for selling and using illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
- Skyrockets
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Firecrackers
- Other fireworks that explode go into the air or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner
"A lot of the illegal fireworks have come from other states that permit them, and they so, and they're not allowed anywhere in California unless it's a structured permit like a fireworks display," said Guitron. "If we catch illegal fireworks, we will investigate, but we'll also be calling the State Fire Marshal's Office."
CAL FIRE offers the following safety tips:
- Use only State Fire Marshal-approved fireworks
- Local ordinances should be verified before purchasing and/or using fireworks
- Always read directions
- Always have an adult present
- Only use fireworks outdoors
- Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials
- Light one firework at a time
"Those in our community in our city are safe and sane as permitted. Continue to use the proper instructions and how to use them. But as far as illegal fireworks, don't do it," said Guitron.
