Fun and Safe at Public Displays, But Illegal and Dangerous Privately
Public Safety officials from the County of Riverside are in the midst of a campaign assuring all residents and visitors that fireworks are illegal in Riverside County, meaning that you may not sell, purchase, transport, store or use fireworks in the unincorporated areas of the County . . . or in most cities, for that matter.
The Cities of Blythe, Coachella, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs and Indio are the only cities that allow the sale and use of State Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks. Fireworks purchased in these cities must not be transported, used or possessed outside of the city they were purchased in.
ALL fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in Riverside County because they cause serious injuries and fires. Seven fires during the 2008 July 4th holidays were the result of fireworks. Visit the Rivco Fire website at www.rvcfire.org and follow the links to view a list of approved public fireworks shows for the 2009 July 4th holiday. They’re a lot more exciting, anyway.
Anyone who causes a wildland fire by using illegal fireworks will be held responsible for all suppression costs. These costs can run into the millions of dollars. Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department law enforcement officers and Riverside County Code Enforcement aggressively enforce Riverside County Ordinance 858, as well as other laws pertaining to the sale, transport, manufacturing storage and use of fireworks. Protecting the safety of the public is a top priority and area public safety personnel enforce “zero tolerance” with regard possession of illegal fireworks. Those caught with fireworks will be subject to fines, citation and/or arrest; including confiscation of the fireworks.
“We urge you to leave the fireworks to the professionals,” said Riverside County Fire Chief John R. Hawkins. “Not only are fireworks dangerous, they are illegal.
“For your holiday safety and enjoyment, please take advantage of the many organized and approved public fireworks shows available to our residents and visitors.”