LOS ANGELES (CNS) – As Southern Californians prepare for Fourth of July celebrations, the California Fire Foundation Wednesday was urging residents to use fireworks responsibly and take precautions to reduce the risk of wildfires and injuries.
The foundation said residents should use only California State Fire Marshal-approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks where they are legal, keep fireworks away from dry grass and other flammable vegetation, and always have a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
Officials also advised lighting only one firework at a time, carefully following manufacturer instructions and soaking used fireworks in water before disposing of them.
The foundation noted that local governments may prohibit all fireworks, even those approved by the state, particularly in communities with elevated wildfire risk. Residents were urged to check local regulations before purchasing or using fireworks.
Consumer fireworks are illegal in the city of Los Angeles and unincorporated Los Angeles County, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Only a limited number of Los Angeles County cities, such as Alhambra, Downey, Hawthorne, Lakewood, Norwalk and South Gate, allow State Fire Marshal-approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks.
The organization also encouraged people to consider alternatives such as attending professional fireworks displays or using glow sticks and other nonflammable celebration items.
In addition to fire safety, the foundation reminded pet owners that fireworks can frighten animals and urged them to keep pets indoors in a quiet area, ensure they wear identification tags and consult a veterinarian if anxiety is a concern.
California experiences increasingly long and severe wildfire seasons, with the vast majority of wildfires caused by human activity, including fireworks, according to the foundation.
Additional fireworks safety information is available through the California Fire Foundation at https://www.cafirefoundation.org.
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