News and Articles
Hawaii has an illegal fireworks problem unlike any other state
SFGate
By Christine Hitt
Dec 27, 2023
https://www.sfgate.com/hawaii/article/hawaii-illegal-fireworks-18568396.php
By Christine Hitt
Dec 27, 2023
https://www.sfgate.com/hawaii/article/hawaii-illegal-fireworks-18568396.php
Leading up to Jan. 1, 2024, it’s likely that Hawaii residents will light up the night sky over the island of Oahu with thousands of illegal fireworks to celebrate the coming of the New Year, as they’ve done in years before.
The entire island will erupt with the sound of firecrackers and sight of illegal aerials shooting into the air in a series of blasts, 360 degrees around, while clouds of black smoke and the smell of sulfur hover over towns and billow in and out of houses.
Like it or not, fireworks are a tradition in Hawaii — and it has proven to be a tough one for authorities to break. So much so, that when the Honolulu City Council banned all fireworks of any kind, except firecrackers, in 2011, the law went ignored.
Click HERE for the full story.
The entire island will erupt with the sound of firecrackers and sight of illegal aerials shooting into the air in a series of blasts, 360 degrees around, while clouds of black smoke and the smell of sulfur hover over towns and billow in and out of houses.
Like it or not, fireworks are a tradition in Hawaii — and it has proven to be a tough one for authorities to break. So much so, that when the Honolulu City Council banned all fireworks of any kind, except firecrackers, in 2011, the law went ignored.
Click HERE for the full story.
Hawaii authorities seize 16 tons of illegal aerial fireworks
Island News
By Matthew Nuttle
Dec 20, 2023
https://www.kitv.com/news/crime/hawaii-authorities-seize-16-tons-of-illegal-aerial-fireworks-in-ongoing-crackdown/article_d7a52f0a-9faa-11ee-bc6e-8b54a128898d.html
Hawaii law enforcement officers seized 16 tons of illegal fireworks from a shipping container last week.
The seized fireworks predominantly consisted of illegal aerial fireworks, characterized by their multi-shot "cakes" or launchers capable of igniting multiple fireworks successively into the air, according to a press released from the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement (DLE).
DLE Director Jordan Lowe emphasized the collaborative effort that led to this successful operation, particularly with the Honolulu Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, whose combined efforts were instrumental in the recovery of the illegal fireworks.
“The Illegal Fireworks Task Force has been working closely with the local shipping industry to stop illegal fireworks from making it into Hawaii,” Lowe said.
Since its establishment around five months ago, the task force has already confiscated over 35,000 pounds of illegal fireworks. Aerial fireworks have long been banned in the state due to the severe risks they pose to public safety, often resulting in injuries, property damage, and disturbances to the community.
As the investigation continues, the DLE urges the community to remain vigilant and cooperative in reporting any information related to the illegal trafficking of fireworks.
By Matthew Nuttle
Dec 20, 2023
https://www.kitv.com/news/crime/hawaii-authorities-seize-16-tons-of-illegal-aerial-fireworks-in-ongoing-crackdown/article_d7a52f0a-9faa-11ee-bc6e-8b54a128898d.html
Hawaii law enforcement officers seized 16 tons of illegal fireworks from a shipping container last week.
The seized fireworks predominantly consisted of illegal aerial fireworks, characterized by their multi-shot "cakes" or launchers capable of igniting multiple fireworks successively into the air, according to a press released from the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement (DLE).
DLE Director Jordan Lowe emphasized the collaborative effort that led to this successful operation, particularly with the Honolulu Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, whose combined efforts were instrumental in the recovery of the illegal fireworks.
“The Illegal Fireworks Task Force has been working closely with the local shipping industry to stop illegal fireworks from making it into Hawaii,” Lowe said.
Since its establishment around five months ago, the task force has already confiscated over 35,000 pounds of illegal fireworks. Aerial fireworks have long been banned in the state due to the severe risks they pose to public safety, often resulting in injuries, property damage, and disturbances to the community.
As the investigation continues, the DLE urges the community to remain vigilant and cooperative in reporting any information related to the illegal trafficking of fireworks.
Monte Foundation Fireworks Display Cancelled
City of Capitola
October 8, 2023
https://www.cityofcapitola.org/cityadministration/page/cancelled-2023-monte-foundation-fireworks-show
"Due to the current construction of the Capitola Wharf, the 2023 Monte Foundation Fireworks Show has been cancelled."
October 8, 2023
https://www.cityofcapitola.org/cityadministration/page/cancelled-2023-monte-foundation-fireworks-show
"Due to the current construction of the Capitola Wharf, the 2023 Monte Foundation Fireworks Show has been cancelled."
Watsonville needs to beef up response on fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel | LTE
July 7, 2023
Watsonville is the only city in this county which allows legal fireworks that do not leave the ground. Before July 4, the city posted illuminated signs reminding residents that it is illegal to launch fireworks that explode in the air. The fine would be $1,000. Residents were encouraged to call a police non-emergency number to report any illegal activity seen or heard. So I was hopeful about the police finally putting a stop to this widespread practice.
On the Fourth, illegal fireworks on multiple streets near my normally quiet senior village started at dusk and continued until 2 a.m. I twice called to report fireworks being launched at multiple locations that I could see and hear from my home. The dispatch operator said each time that the police would respond but were very busy. It’s time to put a stop to illegal fireworks have no place in our warming, wildfire-endangered world. I hope that in the future the city beefs up their response. Think how much money multiple fines would bring in to our city’s strapped coffers!
— Robin Spring, Watsonville
July 7, 2023
Watsonville is the only city in this county which allows legal fireworks that do not leave the ground. Before July 4, the city posted illuminated signs reminding residents that it is illegal to launch fireworks that explode in the air. The fine would be $1,000. Residents were encouraged to call a police non-emergency number to report any illegal activity seen or heard. So I was hopeful about the police finally putting a stop to this widespread practice.
On the Fourth, illegal fireworks on multiple streets near my normally quiet senior village started at dusk and continued until 2 a.m. I twice called to report fireworks being launched at multiple locations that I could see and hear from my home. The dispatch operator said each time that the police would respond but were very busy. It’s time to put a stop to illegal fireworks have no place in our warming, wildfire-endangered world. I hope that in the future the city beefs up their response. Think how much money multiple fines would bring in to our city’s strapped coffers!
— Robin Spring, Watsonville
Seascape Fire Caused by Fireworks
Nextdoor Santa Cruz
July 5, 2023
Elizabeth Turnbull
Seascape •
2 days ago
•
Hey Everyone, Be careful with fireworks! Someone set off some right by our condos and they set a fire on the corner of our condo hillside. They also landed along a fence line on the other side of the fence. All the neighbors jumped in to help with shovels, buckets, and hoses! The fire department came quickly and took care of the rest of the fire. It's no joke and they are against the law for that reason. I know it's a bummer to follow the rules, but our homes would have been toast if the neighbors didn't jump in and help so quickly. We have lots of elderly people in our units who wouldn't be able to evacuate quickly. So please be careful.
Re De
Extreme East Side
Just want to share...all fireworks are not all illegal. On July 4 @ around 7:30ish I called the Sheriff's non-emergency line to report kids throwing, what appeared to be, firecrackers into a (business) parking lot and then running off. Obviously the business was closed or else I don't think they would have allowed this type to shenanigans to go on. (I live on 38th near the railroad tracks.) Parking lot is directly on the other side of the fence that separates my mobile home property line and the parking lot. When I spoke to the dispatcher, she asked if fireworks were the type that you throw into the air? I told her I believe they are more "firecracker" types, made a loud explosion and lots of smoke. I was concerned because I believe there is grass along the parking lot fence line that could catch on fire. I told the dispatcher I thought ALL Fireworks were illegal in Santa Cruz County. She explained if they aren't the ones that go into the air, they are OK. So folks, "I rest my case." I apologized to the dispatcher for placing the call. I always say...where there is smoke, there is fire!
Jack Brown
• Rio Del Mar Upper Cliffs
@Re
"Safe and Sane" are only legal in Watsonville. All types whether in the air, on the ground or thrown are illegal everywhere else.
1d
Re De
• Extreme East Side
Jack Brown Thank you Jack! I thought that is what I heard on the news on July 3rd, which prompt me to make the call when I saw kids throwing firecrackers into parking lot. I did tell her I was on 38th. Ave and location of parking lot. I was about a bit surprised when dispatcher explained that as long as they are not thrown in the air, it was OK. I believe she did refer to them as "Safe and Sane" being OK. Hmmmm Oh well, enough said...
18h
Rosemary Sarka
• Seascape
Re De
The only thing I can think of to explain what the dispatcher said is that, in the light of the chaos of the evening, she was imposing her own form of triage, i.e., kids throwing firecrackers in a parking lot are not as bad as some of the other stuff. But I don't think it's right of her to give a dubious legal opinion. Where there's smoke, there's fire. It's a big deal. We had fire trucks out here in Seascape right on Via Pacifica bc fireworks.
2h
July 5, 2023
Elizabeth Turnbull
Seascape •
2 days ago
•
Hey Everyone, Be careful with fireworks! Someone set off some right by our condos and they set a fire on the corner of our condo hillside. They also landed along a fence line on the other side of the fence. All the neighbors jumped in to help with shovels, buckets, and hoses! The fire department came quickly and took care of the rest of the fire. It's no joke and they are against the law for that reason. I know it's a bummer to follow the rules, but our homes would have been toast if the neighbors didn't jump in and help so quickly. We have lots of elderly people in our units who wouldn't be able to evacuate quickly. So please be careful.
Re De
Extreme East Side
Just want to share...all fireworks are not all illegal. On July 4 @ around 7:30ish I called the Sheriff's non-emergency line to report kids throwing, what appeared to be, firecrackers into a (business) parking lot and then running off. Obviously the business was closed or else I don't think they would have allowed this type to shenanigans to go on. (I live on 38th near the railroad tracks.) Parking lot is directly on the other side of the fence that separates my mobile home property line and the parking lot. When I spoke to the dispatcher, she asked if fireworks were the type that you throw into the air? I told her I believe they are more "firecracker" types, made a loud explosion and lots of smoke. I was concerned because I believe there is grass along the parking lot fence line that could catch on fire. I told the dispatcher I thought ALL Fireworks were illegal in Santa Cruz County. She explained if they aren't the ones that go into the air, they are OK. So folks, "I rest my case." I apologized to the dispatcher for placing the call. I always say...where there is smoke, there is fire!
Jack Brown
• Rio Del Mar Upper Cliffs
@Re
"Safe and Sane" are only legal in Watsonville. All types whether in the air, on the ground or thrown are illegal everywhere else.
1d
Re De
• Extreme East Side
Jack Brown Thank you Jack! I thought that is what I heard on the news on July 3rd, which prompt me to make the call when I saw kids throwing firecrackers into parking lot. I did tell her I was on 38th. Ave and location of parking lot. I was about a bit surprised when dispatcher explained that as long as they are not thrown in the air, it was OK. I believe she did refer to them as "Safe and Sane" being OK. Hmmmm Oh well, enough said...
18h
Rosemary Sarka
• Seascape
Re De
The only thing I can think of to explain what the dispatcher said is that, in the light of the chaos of the evening, she was imposing her own form of triage, i.e., kids throwing firecrackers in a parking lot are not as bad as some of the other stuff. But I don't think it's right of her to give a dubious legal opinion. Where there's smoke, there's fire. It's a big deal. We had fire trucks out here in Seascape right on Via Pacifica bc fireworks.
2h
Warning from New Delhi on the true toll of fireworks
FIREWORKS light up the smoggy sky to celebrate Diwali in New Delhi on Oct. 17, 2009.
The city’s average Air Quality Index last year was an unhealthy 209. (Manish Swarup Associated Press)
The city’s average Air Quality Index last year was an unhealthy 209. (Manish Swarup Associated Press)
LATimes.com
July 6, 2023
As the sun dipped below the horizon on the Fourth of July, the Southern California sky came alive with dazzling bursts of fireworks. Yet beneath this spectacle lies a sobering reality: We pay an environmental toll for this fleeting beauty.
As an international student hailing from New Delhi — one of the world’s most polluted cities — I can’t help but see parallels between the Fourth of July and my hometown’s own celebrations during Diwali, the annual Hindu festival of lights and arguably India’s most widely celebrated festival. Similar to the Fourth of July, fireworks light up the night sky on Diwali, marking the date of Lord Rama’s return to the kingdom of Ayodhya after serving a 14-year exile.
And, like the Fourth of July, the fireworks leave a lasting impact on the environment. The degradation of air quality in New Delhi is much worse than in Los Angeles but should serve as a warning against taking the environmental impact of fireworks — and air pollution, in general — too lightly.
New Delhi battles an air pollution crisis year-round, and measured an average Air Quality Index of 209 last year. An AQI of less than 50 is considered “good,” and anything above 200 is “very unhealthy.” Each year, Diwali causes the AQI to skyrocket, at times reaching terrifying levels. In 2016, the day after Diwali saw an AQI of 999, the maximum level that can be recorded.
Los Angeles has a much lower average AQI than Delhi, but still over the last few years has averaged an AQI considered “poor.” Most recently, L.A. received a failing grade in the 2023 State of the Air report, signifying the dangerous levels of air pollution in the area. On most days, the AQI in Los Angeles County is between 51 and 100 — still outside the level considered “good.” I find these levels worrying, because they represent air pollution that is invisible enough to be easily ignored in the midst of the celebratory atmosphere of, say, the Fourth of July, but definitely not insignificant.
In New Delhi, for instance, the air pollution immediately after Diwali gets so bad that schools all over the city shut down for “pollution breaks.” As a kid I didn’t know much about the large-scale impact of fireworks, and it was hard to get me to care about pollution. But the first time I got a pollution break — probably sometime in junior high — the environmental degradation that I had heard about suddenly became attached to this tangible event. It was a moment of reckoning for me, my peers and our parents.
In writing this essay, I wanted to share my sadness at watching the air in beautiful New Delhi deteriorate. I hope my message can in some small way help prevent the same from taking place in my new home. Although I miss New Delhi dearly, I have come to love the clean smell of California’s air, and I am worried about what we stand to lose as the air continues to worsen.
The time is ripe to start advocating for a cleaner Fourth of July, so that we can prevent California’s future generations from ever needing a pollution break and feeling as if they can’t go outside because breathing the air of their city could seriously hurt them.
With new technological advancements, in fact, we have access to insanely cool new alternatives to fireworks — such as drone light shows, or even virtual fireworks in augmented reality. In embracing these alternatives, we can be a part of a cleaner future, where every child has the freedom to go outside every day. That’s a spectacle worth celebrating.
—Diya Sabharwal,
an intern for the editorial board
July 6, 2023
As the sun dipped below the horizon on the Fourth of July, the Southern California sky came alive with dazzling bursts of fireworks. Yet beneath this spectacle lies a sobering reality: We pay an environmental toll for this fleeting beauty.
As an international student hailing from New Delhi — one of the world’s most polluted cities — I can’t help but see parallels between the Fourth of July and my hometown’s own celebrations during Diwali, the annual Hindu festival of lights and arguably India’s most widely celebrated festival. Similar to the Fourth of July, fireworks light up the night sky on Diwali, marking the date of Lord Rama’s return to the kingdom of Ayodhya after serving a 14-year exile.
And, like the Fourth of July, the fireworks leave a lasting impact on the environment. The degradation of air quality in New Delhi is much worse than in Los Angeles but should serve as a warning against taking the environmental impact of fireworks — and air pollution, in general — too lightly.
New Delhi battles an air pollution crisis year-round, and measured an average Air Quality Index of 209 last year. An AQI of less than 50 is considered “good,” and anything above 200 is “very unhealthy.” Each year, Diwali causes the AQI to skyrocket, at times reaching terrifying levels. In 2016, the day after Diwali saw an AQI of 999, the maximum level that can be recorded.
Los Angeles has a much lower average AQI than Delhi, but still over the last few years has averaged an AQI considered “poor.” Most recently, L.A. received a failing grade in the 2023 State of the Air report, signifying the dangerous levels of air pollution in the area. On most days, the AQI in Los Angeles County is between 51 and 100 — still outside the level considered “good.” I find these levels worrying, because they represent air pollution that is invisible enough to be easily ignored in the midst of the celebratory atmosphere of, say, the Fourth of July, but definitely not insignificant.
In New Delhi, for instance, the air pollution immediately after Diwali gets so bad that schools all over the city shut down for “pollution breaks.” As a kid I didn’t know much about the large-scale impact of fireworks, and it was hard to get me to care about pollution. But the first time I got a pollution break — probably sometime in junior high — the environmental degradation that I had heard about suddenly became attached to this tangible event. It was a moment of reckoning for me, my peers and our parents.
In writing this essay, I wanted to share my sadness at watching the air in beautiful New Delhi deteriorate. I hope my message can in some small way help prevent the same from taking place in my new home. Although I miss New Delhi dearly, I have come to love the clean smell of California’s air, and I am worried about what we stand to lose as the air continues to worsen.
The time is ripe to start advocating for a cleaner Fourth of July, so that we can prevent California’s future generations from ever needing a pollution break and feeling as if they can’t go outside because breathing the air of their city could seriously hurt them.
With new technological advancements, in fact, we have access to insanely cool new alternatives to fireworks — such as drone light shows, or even virtual fireworks in augmented reality. In embracing these alternatives, we can be a part of a cleaner future, where every child has the freedom to go outside every day. That’s a spectacle worth celebrating.
—Diya Sabharwal,
an intern for the editorial board
More cities opt for safer, quieter drone shows on Fourth of July
By Neal Freyman
July 2, 2023
morningbrew.com
As smoky skies blanket the East Coast and the West enters another wildfire season, many US cities are beginning to acknowledge that pounding the air with pyrotechnics in the middle of the summer is maybe not the best idea.
Expanding a trend that began in earnest last year, a number of cities—particularly in the West—are scrapping their July Fourth fireworks displays in favor of drone shows.
Community leaders hope their residents will embrace the change like baseball fans have the pitch clock. Not only are drones safer and better for the environment than fireworks, but they’re also quiet, which is great news for dog owners. Plus, they can tell a story in a way fireworks cannot.
As more events around the world, from the Super Bowl to New Year’s celebrations, adopt drone shows, the market for them has grown from virtually nothing a decade ago to ~$1 billion in 2021, per Allied Market Research data cited by the NYT.
In fact, fireworks have never been more popular. Americans increased their spending on fireworks by about $100 million this year compared to last summer, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association. If spending reaches $2.3 billion this season, as expected, that would represent a 3x increase from just 11 years ago.
Compared to synchronized drones, fireworks are cheaper—a small drone show could cost $20,000, while a fireworks display can land under $7,000, per Flying Magazine. Plus, even the coolest drone shows don’t stir the soul quite like the experience of watching explosives detonate hundreds of feet above you and illuminate the night sky.
Bottom line: As drone choreography goes mainstream and fireworks sales soar even higher, both types of shows will probably coexist on the July Fourth itinerary.--NF
July 2, 2023
morningbrew.com
As smoky skies blanket the East Coast and the West enters another wildfire season, many US cities are beginning to acknowledge that pounding the air with pyrotechnics in the middle of the summer is maybe not the best idea.
Expanding a trend that began in earnest last year, a number of cities—particularly in the West—are scrapping their July Fourth fireworks displays in favor of drone shows.
- Salt Lake City will hold its first drone show for Independence Day to be “conscientious of both our air quality and the potential for wildfires,” Mayor Erin Mendenhall said.
- Boulder, CO, is doing the same, citing “increased fire danger fueled by climate change.”
- In California, Lake Tahoe and La Jolla are also opting for drone shows.
Community leaders hope their residents will embrace the change like baseball fans have the pitch clock. Not only are drones safer and better for the environment than fireworks, but they’re also quiet, which is great news for dog owners. Plus, they can tell a story in a way fireworks cannot.
As more events around the world, from the Super Bowl to New Year’s celebrations, adopt drone shows, the market for them has grown from virtually nothing a decade ago to ~$1 billion in 2021, per Allied Market Research data cited by the NYT.
In fact, fireworks have never been more popular. Americans increased their spending on fireworks by about $100 million this year compared to last summer, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association. If spending reaches $2.3 billion this season, as expected, that would represent a 3x increase from just 11 years ago.
Compared to synchronized drones, fireworks are cheaper—a small drone show could cost $20,000, while a fireworks display can land under $7,000, per Flying Magazine. Plus, even the coolest drone shows don’t stir the soul quite like the experience of watching explosives detonate hundreds of feet above you and illuminate the night sky.
Bottom line: As drone choreography goes mainstream and fireworks sales soar even higher, both types of shows will probably coexist on the July Fourth itinerary.--NF
Nothing ‘safe and sane’ about fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel | LTE
June 30, 2023
It’s after 10:30 p.m. and my poor pup is struggling. We deal with this almost every night from June to August, during the peak season for people using illegal fireworks. We can’t prepare him since we never know exactly when someone will shoot them off. He shakes and pants uncontrollably and I worry his little heart will give out from the stress. I curse those organizations that sell them in so-called “legal” areas to raise money. Do they not understand that buyers don’t just use them in “legal” areas, that they fire them off wherever they want? Are there really no other ways for nonprofits to raise money? Don’t we know the fire danger posed by fireworks?
Almost 20,000 fires are caused by illegal fireworks every year. And, in Santa Cruz County, fireworks become illegal the moment they leave Watsonville, the only place still selling “safe and sane” fireworks.
Can we afford more wildfires in our Central Coast counties? There’s nothing “safe and sane” about illegal fireworks. We need to understand that.
— Nancy Shanfeld, Santa Cruz
June 30, 2023
It’s after 10:30 p.m. and my poor pup is struggling. We deal with this almost every night from June to August, during the peak season for people using illegal fireworks. We can’t prepare him since we never know exactly when someone will shoot them off. He shakes and pants uncontrollably and I worry his little heart will give out from the stress. I curse those organizations that sell them in so-called “legal” areas to raise money. Do they not understand that buyers don’t just use them in “legal” areas, that they fire them off wherever they want? Are there really no other ways for nonprofits to raise money? Don’t we know the fire danger posed by fireworks?
Almost 20,000 fires are caused by illegal fireworks every year. And, in Santa Cruz County, fireworks become illegal the moment they leave Watsonville, the only place still selling “safe and sane” fireworks.
Can we afford more wildfires in our Central Coast counties? There’s nothing “safe and sane” about illegal fireworks. We need to understand that.
— Nancy Shanfeld, Santa Cruz
Hawaii’s illegal fireworks task force: ‘Enough talking!’
KHON, Honolulu, Hawai'i
Bryce Moore
May 10, 2023
https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaiis-illegal-fireworks-task-force-enough-talking/amp/
Curbing Hawaii’s illegal fireworks problem is an issue that lawmakers are hoping to tackle by creating a task force to determine what is needed to stop the explosions.
Over $1 million would be allocated if Gov. Josh Green signs it into law and there is no guarantee anything will change.
Hawaii residents are all too familiar with the booms from illegal fireworks, and not just on New Year’s Eve or the Fourth of July.
Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz said agencies like police, fire and sheriffs all have their own protocols.
“They may not be working collaboratively in the short amount of time they have to react to some kind of situation,” Sen. Dela Cruz said.
The task force would be streamlined into the State’s newly-formed Department of Law Enforcement.
“The task force will determine what other resources that they’re going to need long-term,” Sen. Dela Cruz said. “They may ask for drones, they’re probably going to ask for some computer equipment, they’re going to probably be asking for communication equipment.”
Some asked — since a majority of Hawaii’s goods come via boat — does Hawaii even have to have a discussion on what resources are needed?
“I’m glad they’re trying to do something, but this has been going on for many, many years,” said Ewa Neighborhood Board chair Mitchell Tynanes. “It’s, to me, it’s enough talking!”
“It’s like a broken record that, you know, ‘We’re going to do something, we’re going to do something, we’re going to do something, and here’s another million dollars.’ They should get more officers, they should divert money to the harbors.”
Mitchell Tynanes, Ewa Neighborhood Board chair
Others argued that Hawaii is not known for its quick responses.
“A lot of people say it needs to happen now, you’re right, but with anything in Hawaii, it slowly happens, it doesn’t happen overnight,” said Makiki Neighborhood Board member Sam Mitchell. “But anything is better than nothing.”
Those represented in the task force would include the Attorney General, the deputy director for Harbors, each of the county police chiefs as well as other State and federal agencies.
“Hopefully through the efforts of the task force, they can find perpetrators and make sure that they’re regulated and make sure that laws are enforced,” Sen. Dela Cruz said. “And it may or may not be enough, but we won’t know until the task force meets, discusses what their real needs are and the kind of equipment or communication tools that they’re going to need in the future.”
Bryce Moore
May 10, 2023
https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaiis-illegal-fireworks-task-force-enough-talking/amp/
Curbing Hawaii’s illegal fireworks problem is an issue that lawmakers are hoping to tackle by creating a task force to determine what is needed to stop the explosions.
Over $1 million would be allocated if Gov. Josh Green signs it into law and there is no guarantee anything will change.
Hawaii residents are all too familiar with the booms from illegal fireworks, and not just on New Year’s Eve or the Fourth of July.
Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz said agencies like police, fire and sheriffs all have their own protocols.
“They may not be working collaboratively in the short amount of time they have to react to some kind of situation,” Sen. Dela Cruz said.
The task force would be streamlined into the State’s newly-formed Department of Law Enforcement.
“The task force will determine what other resources that they’re going to need long-term,” Sen. Dela Cruz said. “They may ask for drones, they’re probably going to ask for some computer equipment, they’re going to probably be asking for communication equipment.”
Some asked — since a majority of Hawaii’s goods come via boat — does Hawaii even have to have a discussion on what resources are needed?
“I’m glad they’re trying to do something, but this has been going on for many, many years,” said Ewa Neighborhood Board chair Mitchell Tynanes. “It’s, to me, it’s enough talking!”
“It’s like a broken record that, you know, ‘We’re going to do something, we’re going to do something, we’re going to do something, and here’s another million dollars.’ They should get more officers, they should divert money to the harbors.”
Mitchell Tynanes, Ewa Neighborhood Board chair
Others argued that Hawaii is not known for its quick responses.
“A lot of people say it needs to happen now, you’re right, but with anything in Hawaii, it slowly happens, it doesn’t happen overnight,” said Makiki Neighborhood Board member Sam Mitchell. “But anything is better than nothing.”
Those represented in the task force would include the Attorney General, the deputy director for Harbors, each of the county police chiefs as well as other State and federal agencies.
“Hopefully through the efforts of the task force, they can find perpetrators and make sure that they’re regulated and make sure that laws are enforced,” Sen. Dela Cruz said. “And it may or may not be enough, but we won’t know until the task force meets, discusses what their real needs are and the kind of equipment or communication tools that they’re going to need in the future.”
Scarborough's New Year fireworks cancelled to protect walrus
BBC
January 1, 2023
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-64139048
A New Year's Eve fireworks display had to be cancelled at the last minute to protect an Arctic walrus discovered in Scarborough.
The event was called off over fears it "could cause distress to the mammal".
Council leader Steve Siddons said he was disappointed but "the welfare of the walrus has to take precedence".
The walrus, which drew huge crowds after arriving on Saturday, is now believed to have headed out into the North Sea.
Mr Siddons said the decision to cancel the event was made on the advice of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), who have been monitoring the marine mammal.
Wildlife experts suggested the walrus - nicknamed Thor - was "taking a break" before heading north.
On Saturday, a cordon was put around the animal after sightseers turned up to catch a glimpse, with one local describing the crowds as like a summer's day in the seaside resort.
Emily Mayman, from the BDMLR charity, said the walrus was last seen heading out to sea at about 17:00 GMT on Saturday.
"We've not had any more reports of his sighting pretty much since he went out of the harbour," she said.
She said surrounding coastline was being monitored in case he reappeared, adding he was probably looking for a feeding ground.
"It could be that he could turn up anywhere," she said.
January 1, 2023
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-64139048
A New Year's Eve fireworks display had to be cancelled at the last minute to protect an Arctic walrus discovered in Scarborough.
The event was called off over fears it "could cause distress to the mammal".
Council leader Steve Siddons said he was disappointed but "the welfare of the walrus has to take precedence".
The walrus, which drew huge crowds after arriving on Saturday, is now believed to have headed out into the North Sea.
Mr Siddons said the decision to cancel the event was made on the advice of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), who have been monitoring the marine mammal.
Wildlife experts suggested the walrus - nicknamed Thor - was "taking a break" before heading north.
On Saturday, a cordon was put around the animal after sightseers turned up to catch a glimpse, with one local describing the crowds as like a summer's day in the seaside resort.
Emily Mayman, from the BDMLR charity, said the walrus was last seen heading out to sea at about 17:00 GMT on Saturday.
"We've not had any more reports of his sighting pretty much since he went out of the harbour," she said.
She said surrounding coastline was being monitored in case he reappeared, adding he was probably looking for a feeding ground.
"It could be that he could turn up anywhere," she said.
A cordon was put around Thor after large crowds gathered. Image source, Stuart Ford / PA
Ms Mayman thanked the people of Scarborough, the police and local wildlife organisations for their support."Everybody just did the right thing and we can't be grateful enough for it," she said.
She also praised the council for calling off the fireworks display.
"It's hugely appreciated that they considered his welfare above anything else and I know it has been massively received right across the globe," she said.
She also praised the council for calling off the fireworks display.
"It's hugely appreciated that they considered his welfare above anything else and I know it has been massively received right across the globe," she said.
Tahoe resort scraps July 4 fireworks for drones
Pyrotechnic displays pose a heightened fire risk in a time of intense drought and cause distress to wild animals.
The Guardian
July 1, 2022
Lake Tahoe’s north shore is breaking with tradition and will replace its Fourth of July fireworks celebration with a colorful light display of an entirely different nature.
The tourist town on the Nevada side of the storied lake will offer a night-time drone light show, a display officials at the Incline Village Crystal Bay visitors bureau said carries less danger in a parched landscape primed to burn.
“I enjoy fireworks and always have,” said Andy Chapman, president and CEO of the bureau. “But we started thinking – are pyrotechnic fireworks really sustainable moving forward?”
In addition to the fire risk they pose, the festive detonations cause other environmental harms, spiking pollution in air and water and causing distress to animals and sensitive communities alike.
Click HERE to read more.
The Guardian
July 1, 2022
Lake Tahoe’s north shore is breaking with tradition and will replace its Fourth of July fireworks celebration with a colorful light display of an entirely different nature.
The tourist town on the Nevada side of the storied lake will offer a night-time drone light show, a display officials at the Incline Village Crystal Bay visitors bureau said carries less danger in a parched landscape primed to burn.
“I enjoy fireworks and always have,” said Andy Chapman, president and CEO of the bureau. “But we started thinking – are pyrotechnic fireworks really sustainable moving forward?”
In addition to the fire risk they pose, the festive detonations cause other environmental harms, spiking pollution in air and water and causing distress to animals and sensitive communities alike.
Click HERE to read more.
Fireworks sales begin today in Watsonville
The Pajaronian
July 1, 2022
by Todd Guild
https://pajaronian.com/fireworks-sales-begin-today-in-watsonville/
July 1, 2022
by Todd Guild
https://pajaronian.com/fireworks-sales-begin-today-in-watsonville/
Santa Cruz County’s Fourth of July celebration frequently features fireworks, and sales begin today at 20 locations throughout the City of Watsonville for the “safe-and-sane” variety.
These are allowed to be used only in the cities of Capitola and Watsonville. The problem, law enforcement and fire officials say, is that many of the fireworks used during the holiday are neither safe nor sane, and often are used in areas where they are forbidden. |
The days leading up to and away from the fiery fete are a challenge for officials, as out-of-control fireworks spark fires, and loud explosions rock neighborhoods.
And so a traditional part of Independence Day is also a warning to residents: anyone caught with illegal fireworks—those that explode and leave the ground—face a $1,000 fine per firework. Additionally, homeowners, property owners and tenants alike will be cited if there is evidence the fireworks were used on the property.
Watsonville Fire Chief Rudy Lopez says that anyone using “safe-and-sane” fireworks—those sold in Watsonville and carry the state fire marshal approval—should always have a hose ready, and a bucket to soak them in once used.
Never discard used fireworks without soaking them first, he says.
Both Watsonville police and firefighters will be on patrol over the weekend and on the day of issuing the citations.
All fireworks are illegal in the unincorporated parts of Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz, where scofflaws also face $1,000 tickets and triple fines for fireworks and other violations.
Anyone reporting a fireworks violation should give the exact location, whether they were aerial and whether they pose a hazard.
In Watsonville, nonprofits see the firework sales as their biggest fundraiser of the year.
And so a traditional part of Independence Day is also a warning to residents: anyone caught with illegal fireworks—those that explode and leave the ground—face a $1,000 fine per firework. Additionally, homeowners, property owners and tenants alike will be cited if there is evidence the fireworks were used on the property.
Watsonville Fire Chief Rudy Lopez says that anyone using “safe-and-sane” fireworks—those sold in Watsonville and carry the state fire marshal approval—should always have a hose ready, and a bucket to soak them in once used.
Never discard used fireworks without soaking them first, he says.
Both Watsonville police and firefighters will be on patrol over the weekend and on the day of issuing the citations.
All fireworks are illegal in the unincorporated parts of Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz, where scofflaws also face $1,000 tickets and triple fines for fireworks and other violations.
Anyone reporting a fireworks violation should give the exact location, whether they were aerial and whether they pose a hazard.
In Watsonville, nonprofits see the firework sales as their biggest fundraiser of the year.
Scotts Valley brings back blowing up the sky, air pollution, noise pollution.
Press Banner
June 24, 2022
By: Christina Wise
For locals that have been missing the snap, crackle and pop of 4th of July fireworks, Scotts Valley’s new City Manager, Mali LaGoe, has you covered.
LaGoe, who moved to Scotts Valley in January, has never celebrated Independence Day Scotts Valley-style. This year, LaGoe, who was chosen as the new city manager in November of last year, will be overseeing the return of the city’s 4th of July event—this year, it’s going to be held on Sunday, July 3—and is excited to spread the good news.
“It’s going to be a great opportunity for our community to come together. This event has always been one of the main staples of the community, and we’re excited to bring it back,” said LaGoe. “We’re grateful for the many sponsors and SVEF for stepping up, and we look forward to people coming out. It’s going to be a great opportunity for great food, great music, fun family activities, and the opportunity to celebrate our country in a small-town atmosphere.”
June 24, 2022
By: Christina Wise
For locals that have been missing the snap, crackle and pop of 4th of July fireworks, Scotts Valley’s new City Manager, Mali LaGoe, has you covered.
LaGoe, who moved to Scotts Valley in January, has never celebrated Independence Day Scotts Valley-style. This year, LaGoe, who was chosen as the new city manager in November of last year, will be overseeing the return of the city’s 4th of July event—this year, it’s going to be held on Sunday, July 3—and is excited to spread the good news.
“It’s going to be a great opportunity for our community to come together. This event has always been one of the main staples of the community, and we’re excited to bring it back,” said LaGoe. “We’re grateful for the many sponsors and SVEF for stepping up, and we look forward to people coming out. It’s going to be a great opportunity for great food, great music, fun family activities, and the opportunity to celebrate our country in a small-town atmosphere.”
New Year's Eve fireworks kill and injure in Europe despite bans
BBC
January 1, 2022
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-59848648
Fireworks have killed three people and injured scores others in Europe despite bans being in place against their use.
January 1, 2022
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-59848648
Fireworks have killed three people and injured scores others in Europe despite bans being in place against their use.
The blinding lights!
By Prashant Naik, originally published by Resilience.org
October 18, 2021
https://www.resilience.org/stories/2021-10-18/the-blinding-lights/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-blinding-lights&mc_cid=cd9d727073&mc_eid=24b0c20b85
By Prashant Naik, originally published by Resilience.org
October 18, 2021
https://www.resilience.org/stories/2021-10-18/the-blinding-lights/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-blinding-lights&mc_cid=cd9d727073&mc_eid=24b0c20b85
" ... we all enjoy fireworks as a symbol of celebration. But as a society we do not seem to care about the significant amount of air pollution they released into the atmosphere. Light pollution caused by fireworks can affect the wake and sleep patterns of wildlife. Even though short lived, the toxins released by conventional fireworks can have detrimental effects, direct or indirect, such as acid rain, and have been linked to climate change as well."
Harbor High ‘pipe bomber’ identified as Scotts Valley man
Santa Cruz Sentinel
By Jessica York
October 8, 2021
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/10/08/harbor-high-pipe-bomber-identified-as-scotts-valley-man/
Police investigators have identified the culprit they say set off a modified firework Saturday night outside Harbor High School.
Using witness descriptions and Santa Cruz City Schools District video surveillance, Santa Cruz Police Department officers detained a 50-year-old Scotts Valley man for questioning Thursday morning. The man, police say, admitted that he had ignited “an industrial-grade pyrotechnic device” but said that he was setting it off in what was meant as a celebratory gesture. The man said that, after he attached it to a chain-link fence outside the high school, he expected the firework to detonate up in the air, according to police.
Instead, shortly before 7 p.m., “the explosion occurred on the ground, thundered throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, and was heard for miles,” the department posted to its Facebook page.
The man was at the school to participate in a sports jamboree using the school’s playing fields, an event not affiliated with the school district, according to police.
While the unnamed man had not been arrested as of Thursday, the police department is coordinating with the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office for potential criminal charges related to the incident. No damage was done to surrounding vehicles or infrastructure and no one was hurt in the blast, police officials said Monday.
Police do not believe the safety of students at Harbor High School is at risk, having found no additional explosives at the man’s residence nor any additional people involved in the incident, they said.
By Jessica York
October 8, 2021
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/10/08/harbor-high-pipe-bomber-identified-as-scotts-valley-man/
Police investigators have identified the culprit they say set off a modified firework Saturday night outside Harbor High School.
Using witness descriptions and Santa Cruz City Schools District video surveillance, Santa Cruz Police Department officers detained a 50-year-old Scotts Valley man for questioning Thursday morning. The man, police say, admitted that he had ignited “an industrial-grade pyrotechnic device” but said that he was setting it off in what was meant as a celebratory gesture. The man said that, after he attached it to a chain-link fence outside the high school, he expected the firework to detonate up in the air, according to police.
Instead, shortly before 7 p.m., “the explosion occurred on the ground, thundered throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, and was heard for miles,” the department posted to its Facebook page.
The man was at the school to participate in a sports jamboree using the school’s playing fields, an event not affiliated with the school district, according to police.
While the unnamed man had not been arrested as of Thursday, the police department is coordinating with the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office for potential criminal charges related to the incident. No damage was done to surrounding vehicles or infrastructure and no one was hurt in the blast, police officials said Monday.
Police do not believe the safety of students at Harbor High School is at risk, having found no additional explosives at the man’s residence nor any additional people involved in the incident, they said.
Report shows enforcement is curbing illegal fireworks in San Jose
San Jose Spotlight
August 27, 2021
by Eli Wolfe
https://sanjosespotlight.com/report-shows-enforcement-curbing-illegal-fireworks-san-jose/
Firework activity over Fourth of July significantly decreased compared to last year, and city leaders are taking this as a sign that recent enforcement campaigns are working.
Earlier this month, members of San Jose’s Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee heard highlights from a report on illegal firework activity leading up to Fourth of July weekend.
Between June 15 and July 5, the San Jose Fire Department received 56 calls for service, with 14 being outside fires related to fireworks while the rest were smoke scares or fires of undetermined origin. No reported structure fires resulted from fireworks.
During the same period, the San Jose Police Department received 1,769 complaints about fireworks through its online reporting tool. In total, 10 reports resulted in a citation, while 479 reports resulted in a warning. The remaining 1,280 complaints did not have enough information to warrant action, but will be used as data for tracking hot spots for firework activity.
After illegal fireworks complaints tripled last year, officials in San Jose doubled fines for first-time violators. In the run-up to Fourth of July weekend this year, officials in San Jose and Santa Clara County spent weeks making pleas and threats to persuade residents to not set off illegal fireworks.
SJPD Capt. Jason Ta said there was a dramatic decrease in calls for service compared to last year. In 2020, the department got more than 2,000 calls for service related to fireworks. This year, there were slightly more than 1,000.
Click HERE to read more.
August 27, 2021
by Eli Wolfe
https://sanjosespotlight.com/report-shows-enforcement-curbing-illegal-fireworks-san-jose/
Firework activity over Fourth of July significantly decreased compared to last year, and city leaders are taking this as a sign that recent enforcement campaigns are working.
Earlier this month, members of San Jose’s Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee heard highlights from a report on illegal firework activity leading up to Fourth of July weekend.
Between June 15 and July 5, the San Jose Fire Department received 56 calls for service, with 14 being outside fires related to fireworks while the rest were smoke scares or fires of undetermined origin. No reported structure fires resulted from fireworks.
During the same period, the San Jose Police Department received 1,769 complaints about fireworks through its online reporting tool. In total, 10 reports resulted in a citation, while 479 reports resulted in a warning. The remaining 1,280 complaints did not have enough information to warrant action, but will be used as data for tracking hot spots for firework activity.
After illegal fireworks complaints tripled last year, officials in San Jose doubled fines for first-time violators. In the run-up to Fourth of July weekend this year, officials in San Jose and Santa Clara County spent weeks making pleas and threats to persuade residents to not set off illegal fireworks.
SJPD Capt. Jason Ta said there was a dramatic decrease in calls for service compared to last year. In 2020, the department got more than 2,000 calls for service related to fireworks. This year, there were slightly more than 1,000.
Click HERE to read more.
Officials say illegal fireworks caused fire that destroyed house
The Mercury News
by Rick Hurd
July 12, 2021
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/07/12/illegal-fireworks-the-cause-as-antioch-house-burns-to-ground/
Two displaced after a vegetation blaze spread to residence
By Rick Hurd and Judith Prieve Staff writers
The use of illegal fireworks is to blame for a weekend fire in Antioch that destroyed a house and left a man and woman searching for a new place to live, fire officials said.
The blaze started as a vegetation fire on I Street around 8:30 p.m., fire spokesman Steve Hill of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said. The embers from that fire then were blown by significant winds and set a tree ablaze.
The fire from the tree then spread to the house in the 600 block of H Street. It went ablaze around 9 p.m.
Neither resident was home when the fire started, Hill said.
"The first fire we know was caused from fireworks," he said. "This is the fear." Though their home was uninhabitable when they returned, Robin Lyn Anderson said she was thankful they were able to locate her three cats. She posted on Facebook looking for help finding a place to rent.
Click HERE to read more.
by Rick Hurd
July 12, 2021
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/07/12/illegal-fireworks-the-cause-as-antioch-house-burns-to-ground/
Two displaced after a vegetation blaze spread to residence
By Rick Hurd and Judith Prieve Staff writers
The use of illegal fireworks is to blame for a weekend fire in Antioch that destroyed a house and left a man and woman searching for a new place to live, fire officials said.
The blaze started as a vegetation fire on I Street around 8:30 p.m., fire spokesman Steve Hill of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said. The embers from that fire then were blown by significant winds and set a tree ablaze.
The fire from the tree then spread to the house in the 600 block of H Street. It went ablaze around 9 p.m.
Neither resident was home when the fire started, Hill said.
"The first fire we know was caused from fireworks," he said. "This is the fear." Though their home was uninhabitable when they returned, Robin Lyn Anderson said she was thankful they were able to locate her three cats. She posted on Facebook looking for help finding a place to rent.
Click HERE to read more.
First District Supervisor Manu Koening
Wishing You a Fireworks-Free 4th of July!
Wishing You a Fireworks-Free 4th of July!
Fireworks are illegal throughout most of Santa Cruz County, including all beaches. With an early start to California’s fire season, fireworks can significantly elevate the threat of wildfires. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office plans enhanced patrols throughout the holiday weekend, and the County is running social media ads from San Francisco to Monterey to remind people of the threat posed by illegal fireworks. Fines of up to $1,000 are in effect for duration the 4th of July holiday weekend. If you see what looks like a homemade explosive, stay back, call 911, and wait for law enforcement.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Fireworks.aspx
For more information, please visit:
https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Fireworks.aspx
Illegal fireworks suspected of starting fires in Oakland, Contra Costa County
The Mercury News
By Jane Tyska
July 6, 2021
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/07/05/photos-and-video-fourth-of-july-illegal-fireworks-light-up-the-skies-in-east-oakland/
East Bay fire crews scrambled late Sunday night and early Monday as fires in Oakland and Contra Costa County — many of them suspected to have been caused by illegal fireworks use — broke out during Fourth of July celebrations, officials said.
The booming of illegal fireworks had pretty much ended by mid-morning Monday, but a few burned buildings and piles of used fireworks litter on 14th Avenue was a grim reminder of what residents endured overnight.
A warehouse fire in Oakland that grew to three alarms early Monday was the most significant of the fires, none of which injured anyone, officials from the Oakland Fire Department and the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said.
Overall, ConFire crews responded to 53 fires between 9 p.m. Sunday and midnight Monday, spokesman Steve Hill said. Oakland Fire crews responded to 61 fire-related calls Sunday, and there were three structure fires between midnight and 3 a.m.
Click HERE for more.
By Jane Tyska
July 6, 2021
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/07/05/photos-and-video-fourth-of-july-illegal-fireworks-light-up-the-skies-in-east-oakland/
East Bay fire crews scrambled late Sunday night and early Monday as fires in Oakland and Contra Costa County — many of them suspected to have been caused by illegal fireworks use — broke out during Fourth of July celebrations, officials said.
The booming of illegal fireworks had pretty much ended by mid-morning Monday, but a few burned buildings and piles of used fireworks litter on 14th Avenue was a grim reminder of what residents endured overnight.
A warehouse fire in Oakland that grew to three alarms early Monday was the most significant of the fires, none of which injured anyone, officials from the Oakland Fire Department and the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said.
Overall, ConFire crews responded to 53 fires between 9 p.m. Sunday and midnight Monday, spokesman Steve Hill said. Oakland Fire crews responded to 61 fire-related calls Sunday, and there were three structure fires between midnight and 3 a.m.
Click HERE for more.
In Wildfire Country, It’s Time to Lay Off the Fireworks
Bloomberg CityLab
July 3, 2021
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-03/fireworks-and-wildfires-don-t-mix
The worst day for human-caused fires in the U.S. is July 4. That’s a particular problem this year, as a historic heat wave and record drought have exacerbated the risk of wildfires.
That’s why more than 150 fire scientists signed a letter this week urging people in the West to skip fireworks this Independence Day, just as the U.S. enters peak wildfire season. Blazes are already raging in several states, with some spreading through tens of thousands of acres in California, Colorado and Arizona.
In response, some cities and counties in California, Oregon, Arizona and Utah have canceled public displays, and imposed restrictions or outright bans on the use of personal fireworks. But it won’t be easy to tamp down that bombastic American tradition.
...
But with large swaths of America already on fire, and 2021 setting the perfect conditions for yet another intense wildfire season, perhaps the most patriotic thing for those in the American West to do is lay off the pyrotechnics.
Click HERE to read the full article.
July 3, 2021
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-03/fireworks-and-wildfires-don-t-mix
The worst day for human-caused fires in the U.S. is July 4. That’s a particular problem this year, as a historic heat wave and record drought have exacerbated the risk of wildfires.
That’s why more than 150 fire scientists signed a letter this week urging people in the West to skip fireworks this Independence Day, just as the U.S. enters peak wildfire season. Blazes are already raging in several states, with some spreading through tens of thousands of acres in California, Colorado and Arizona.
In response, some cities and counties in California, Oregon, Arizona and Utah have canceled public displays, and imposed restrictions or outright bans on the use of personal fireworks. But it won’t be easy to tamp down that bombastic American tradition.
...
But with large swaths of America already on fire, and 2021 setting the perfect conditions for yet another intense wildfire season, perhaps the most patriotic thing for those in the American West to do is lay off the pyrotechnics.
Click HERE to read the full article.
When are we going to outgrow fireworks?
Lookout Santa Cruz
July 2, 2021
https://lookout.co/santacruz/wallace-baine/the-here-now/story/2021-07-02/santa-cruz-wildfires-when-are-we-going-to-outgrow-fireworks
By Wallace Baine
One of these days — and I’m surprised it hasn’t happened already — one of those hyper-partisan trolls who profits from enflaming culture war narratives is going to neatly package, for maximum faux-outrage, a “War on Fireworks.”
After all, fireworks are an American tradition, deeply rooted in expressions of patriotism, even featured prominently in the national anthem. Fireworks are so entwined with celebrations of the Fourth of July that the two are functionally inseparable.
But the tide is clearly going out on the popularity, even the tolerance, of fireworks. This weekend marks the first Independence Day celebration since the ruinous CZU fire catastrophe last summer, and if resentment against illegal fireworks was high before 2020, it’s absolutely stratospheric now, especially in California.
To report the discharge of illegal fireworks in Santa Cruz County during the Fourth of July weekend, call (831) 471-1131 for Santa Cruz, (831) 475-4242 for Capitola and (831) 471-1121 for unincorporated areas, or by e-mail at [email protected].
Click HERE to read the full article.
July 2, 2021
https://lookout.co/santacruz/wallace-baine/the-here-now/story/2021-07-02/santa-cruz-wildfires-when-are-we-going-to-outgrow-fireworks
By Wallace Baine
One of these days — and I’m surprised it hasn’t happened already — one of those hyper-partisan trolls who profits from enflaming culture war narratives is going to neatly package, for maximum faux-outrage, a “War on Fireworks.”
After all, fireworks are an American tradition, deeply rooted in expressions of patriotism, even featured prominently in the national anthem. Fireworks are so entwined with celebrations of the Fourth of July that the two are functionally inseparable.
But the tide is clearly going out on the popularity, even the tolerance, of fireworks. This weekend marks the first Independence Day celebration since the ruinous CZU fire catastrophe last summer, and if resentment against illegal fireworks was high before 2020, it’s absolutely stratospheric now, especially in California.
To report the discharge of illegal fireworks in Santa Cruz County during the Fourth of July weekend, call (831) 471-1131 for Santa Cruz, (831) 475-4242 for Capitola and (831) 471-1121 for unincorporated areas, or by e-mail at [email protected].
Click HERE to read the full article.
Questions remain in wake of LA homemade fireworks blast
Associated Press
July 1, 2021
A massive explosion rocked a Los Angeles neighborhood as homemade fireworks were being destroyed by a bomb squad, leaving a trail of destruction, injuries and questions in its wake as the July Fourth holiday approaches.
Seventeen people were hurt Wednesday night — including nine Los Angeles police officers and a federal agent — in the blast, which also flipped and damaged cars and smashed windows in homes and a laundromat. The explosion was heard blocks away.
It could take days to determine why the material exploded inside a spherical containment vessel on a tractor-trailer, tearing the rig apart in what was supposed to be a safe operation to handle explosives that were too unstable to remove from a South Los Angeles neighborhood where tons of illegal fireworks were discovered.
The one-ton lid of the vessel flew into a backyard two blocks away, breaking a lemon tree and damaging the house, KNBC-TV reported.
Experts say the explosion was highly unusual, especially for a law enforcement agency with the size and resources of the Los Angeles Police Department. The blast could have been the result of human error — such as not correctly sealing the vessel or over-loading it with material — or a defect in the equipment like a micro-fissure that has grown with time and use. Or both.
“They were very lucky that nobody got killed here,” said Glenn Corbett, a fire science professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York.
Bomb squads nationwide will likely now double-check their own equipment in remote locations, to be sure there aren’t potential defects in their containment vessels, which cost tens of thousands of dollars, that could hurt more people, Corbett said.
The LAPD did not answer questions Thursday seeking information such as how old the containment vessel was and how many times it had been used and inspected. But Chief Michel Moore previously said “clearly, protocols were followed and pursued.”
“But something happened in that containment vessel that should not have happened, and we don’t know why,” Moore said. “But we intend to find out why.”
Less than 10 pounds (4.54 kilograms) of material was placed in the chamber, far less than its safety rating, Moore said. He described the material as 40 home-made devices the size of Coca-Cola cans with simple fuses and 200 smaller but similar devices.
“This vessel should have been able to dispose of that material,” he said. But instead there was a “total, catastrophic failure of that containment vehicle.”
Typically, the heavy-duty hydraulic doors will latch and lock — usually by remote — and the detonation is instantaneous. The displaced blast wave is absorbed by the vessel and released outside safely.
“You wouldn’t even know,” said Sean Dennis, president and co-founder of the United States Bomb Technician Association, besides a muffled ding and a light hiss when some of the pressure is released.
The LAPD has not said what company made the containment device. Attempts to reach several manufacturers Thursday were unsuccessful.
July 1, 2021
A massive explosion rocked a Los Angeles neighborhood as homemade fireworks were being destroyed by a bomb squad, leaving a trail of destruction, injuries and questions in its wake as the July Fourth holiday approaches.
Seventeen people were hurt Wednesday night — including nine Los Angeles police officers and a federal agent — in the blast, which also flipped and damaged cars and smashed windows in homes and a laundromat. The explosion was heard blocks away.
It could take days to determine why the material exploded inside a spherical containment vessel on a tractor-trailer, tearing the rig apart in what was supposed to be a safe operation to handle explosives that were too unstable to remove from a South Los Angeles neighborhood where tons of illegal fireworks were discovered.
The one-ton lid of the vessel flew into a backyard two blocks away, breaking a lemon tree and damaging the house, KNBC-TV reported.
Experts say the explosion was highly unusual, especially for a law enforcement agency with the size and resources of the Los Angeles Police Department. The blast could have been the result of human error — such as not correctly sealing the vessel or over-loading it with material — or a defect in the equipment like a micro-fissure that has grown with time and use. Or both.
“They were very lucky that nobody got killed here,” said Glenn Corbett, a fire science professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York.
Bomb squads nationwide will likely now double-check their own equipment in remote locations, to be sure there aren’t potential defects in their containment vessels, which cost tens of thousands of dollars, that could hurt more people, Corbett said.
The LAPD did not answer questions Thursday seeking information such as how old the containment vessel was and how many times it had been used and inspected. But Chief Michel Moore previously said “clearly, protocols were followed and pursued.”
“But something happened in that containment vessel that should not have happened, and we don’t know why,” Moore said. “But we intend to find out why.”
Less than 10 pounds (4.54 kilograms) of material was placed in the chamber, far less than its safety rating, Moore said. He described the material as 40 home-made devices the size of Coca-Cola cans with simple fuses and 200 smaller but similar devices.
“This vessel should have been able to dispose of that material,” he said. But instead there was a “total, catastrophic failure of that containment vehicle.”
Typically, the heavy-duty hydraulic doors will latch and lock — usually by remote — and the detonation is instantaneous. The displaced blast wave is absorbed by the vessel and released outside safely.
“You wouldn’t even know,” said Sean Dennis, president and co-founder of the United States Bomb Technician Association, besides a muffled ding and a light hiss when some of the pressure is released.
The LAPD has not said what company made the containment device. Attempts to reach several manufacturers Thursday were unsuccessful.
The explosion came after police had spent the day disposing of about 3,000 to 5,000 pounds (1,360 to 2,268 kilograms) of commercial-grade fireworks that were found in the home following an early-morning tip. Police found some of them on a patio in cartons stacked 8 to 10 feet (2.44 to 3 meters) high, Moore said.
Fireworks are illegal to sell or possess in Los Angeles and in unincorporated areas of the county.
A resident, Arturo Cejas, 27, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a destructive device, but he also may face charges of child endangerment because his 10-year-old brother was in the home, Moore said.
It wasn’t immediately known whether Cejas had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
The fireworks cartons were marked “Made in China.” The police chief said they were bought out of state in order to sell them in the neighborhood for use on the Fourth of July.
Peter Diaczuk, a forensic science professor at John Jay, said the size of the blast indicated high-explosive devices that wouldn’t be used for a local Independence Day celebration.
As the holiday approaches, fire departments statewide are confiscating tens of thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks and warning users that setting them off could lead to devastating wildfires. Los Angeles police on Thursday announced that they seized another ton of illegal fireworks from a shipping container and the bomb squad trucked it to a storage facility.
In LA, Moore said on Wednesday that three box trucks and a 53-foot (16-meter) trailer were brought in to load up the fireworks at the South Los Angeles home and move them to a safe location. However, the “improvised explosives” that were also found were too dangerous to move, the chief said.
There was a 300-foot (91-meter) boundary around the vessel — a typical safety range — and police had knocked on doors before the blast to evacuate homes on both sides of the street where the truck was parked. But firefighters later found people in some of the homes, officials said.
It’s not unusual for bomb squads to not know exactly what comprises the homemade explosives they are detonating, Diaczuk said.
“You don’t know what you’re dealing with. You don’t know what this character made,” he said. “It doesn’t come with ingredients in it like when you go to the grocery store.”
Fireworks are illegal to sell or possess in Los Angeles and in unincorporated areas of the county.
A resident, Arturo Cejas, 27, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a destructive device, but he also may face charges of child endangerment because his 10-year-old brother was in the home, Moore said.
It wasn’t immediately known whether Cejas had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
The fireworks cartons were marked “Made in China.” The police chief said they were bought out of state in order to sell them in the neighborhood for use on the Fourth of July.
Peter Diaczuk, a forensic science professor at John Jay, said the size of the blast indicated high-explosive devices that wouldn’t be used for a local Independence Day celebration.
As the holiday approaches, fire departments statewide are confiscating tens of thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks and warning users that setting them off could lead to devastating wildfires. Los Angeles police on Thursday announced that they seized another ton of illegal fireworks from a shipping container and the bomb squad trucked it to a storage facility.
In LA, Moore said on Wednesday that three box trucks and a 53-foot (16-meter) trailer were brought in to load up the fireworks at the South Los Angeles home and move them to a safe location. However, the “improvised explosives” that were also found were too dangerous to move, the chief said.
There was a 300-foot (91-meter) boundary around the vessel — a typical safety range — and police had knocked on doors before the blast to evacuate homes on both sides of the street where the truck was parked. But firefighters later found people in some of the homes, officials said.
It’s not unusual for bomb squads to not know exactly what comprises the homemade explosives they are detonating, Diaczuk said.
“You don’t know what you’re dealing with. You don’t know what this character made,” he said. “It doesn’t come with ingredients in it like when you go to the grocery store.”
This Fourth, spare the night, don’t ignite
Santa Cruz Sentinel | Letters to the Editor
July 1, 2021
Last year Santa Cruz County survived the worst fire in the history of the county. Again we face a dry summer, and the timber is dry. We all need to remember that a burning scrap of smoldering paper can fly as easily as a burnt leaf. So, don’t buy the fireworks, and don’t light up the night.
Although some think it a right
To despoil the silent of night
For this time of year,
It is flame noise and fear.
Happy Fourth to all, and to all, don’t ignite.
— John Pilge, Santa Cruz
July 1, 2021
Last year Santa Cruz County survived the worst fire in the history of the county. Again we face a dry summer, and the timber is dry. We all need to remember that a burning scrap of smoldering paper can fly as easily as a burnt leaf. So, don’t buy the fireworks, and don’t light up the night.
Although some think it a right
To despoil the silent of night
For this time of year,
It is flame noise and fear.
Happy Fourth to all, and to all, don’t ignite.
— John Pilge, Santa Cruz
Zero tolerance for illegal fireworks on Fourth of July
The Mercury News
July 1, 2021
by Rachel Oh
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/30/san-jose-fire-officials-zero-tolerance-for-illegal-fireworks-on-fourth-of-july/
Californians are eager to celebrate after a year of pandemic lockdowns, but South Bay fire officials on Wednesday warned they will be on patrol over the upcoming Fourth of July weekend and ready to crack down on illegal fireworks.
“Our stance is there is zero tolerance. If we catch you with fireworks we’re going to prosecute you,” Jim Rajskup, Cal Fire Chief of Enforcement, said during a news conference Wednesday, overlooking the arid east foothills of San Jose.
This year’s fire season is poised to be particularly dangerous due to the extensive drought in California. “San Jose’s foothills are a tinderbox,” said Cindy Chavez, a Santa Clara County supervisor, calling the dry conditions and Fourth of July celebrations a “potentially lethal combination.”
In order to prevent a catastrophic wildfire, officials from San Jose City, Santa Clara County and Cal Fire are joining forces this weekend. “We have additional staff that will be on duty that day patrolling throughout the city,” said James Williams, San Jose Fire Department assistant chief.
In most parts of Santa Clara County, “fireworks are illegal … to use them, to possess them, to sell them,” Williams said.
Santa Clara County’s social host ordinance holds property owners accountable for illegal fireworks, in addition to those on the property who discharge fireworks. While the penalties vary across jurisdictions, individuals can be charged with misdemeanors or a felony if the fireworks are over 100 pounds. Fines may be up to thousands of dollars. Individuals may also be liable for the costs of emergency response service.
The city of Gilroy still allows safe and sane fireworks.
Williams encouraged residents to report illegal fireworks they witness by visiting www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks or by calling San Jose’s 3-1-1 or the hotline 408-565-5600.
Fire officials are worried about fireworks sparking wildfires that have become especially alarming after two years of drought.
“Last year, wildfire smoke impacted the entire region for more than a month,” said Jack Broadbent, Bay Area Air Quality Management District Chief Executive Officer and Air Pollution Control Officer.
Broadbent said that the district is providing air filtration units for vulnerable residents and free chipping services for removing excess vegetation. “Now is the time to take action,” Broadbent said.
“Please make this year different,” said Hector Estrada, Santa Clara County Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention. “And remember that when it comes to fireworks, it’s not worth it.”
July 1, 2021
by Rachel Oh
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/30/san-jose-fire-officials-zero-tolerance-for-illegal-fireworks-on-fourth-of-july/
Californians are eager to celebrate after a year of pandemic lockdowns, but South Bay fire officials on Wednesday warned they will be on patrol over the upcoming Fourth of July weekend and ready to crack down on illegal fireworks.
“Our stance is there is zero tolerance. If we catch you with fireworks we’re going to prosecute you,” Jim Rajskup, Cal Fire Chief of Enforcement, said during a news conference Wednesday, overlooking the arid east foothills of San Jose.
This year’s fire season is poised to be particularly dangerous due to the extensive drought in California. “San Jose’s foothills are a tinderbox,” said Cindy Chavez, a Santa Clara County supervisor, calling the dry conditions and Fourth of July celebrations a “potentially lethal combination.”
In order to prevent a catastrophic wildfire, officials from San Jose City, Santa Clara County and Cal Fire are joining forces this weekend. “We have additional staff that will be on duty that day patrolling throughout the city,” said James Williams, San Jose Fire Department assistant chief.
In most parts of Santa Clara County, “fireworks are illegal … to use them, to possess them, to sell them,” Williams said.
Santa Clara County’s social host ordinance holds property owners accountable for illegal fireworks, in addition to those on the property who discharge fireworks. While the penalties vary across jurisdictions, individuals can be charged with misdemeanors or a felony if the fireworks are over 100 pounds. Fines may be up to thousands of dollars. Individuals may also be liable for the costs of emergency response service.
The city of Gilroy still allows safe and sane fireworks.
Williams encouraged residents to report illegal fireworks they witness by visiting www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks or by calling San Jose’s 3-1-1 or the hotline 408-565-5600.
Fire officials are worried about fireworks sparking wildfires that have become especially alarming after two years of drought.
“Last year, wildfire smoke impacted the entire region for more than a month,” said Jack Broadbent, Bay Area Air Quality Management District Chief Executive Officer and Air Pollution Control Officer.
Broadbent said that the district is providing air filtration units for vulnerable residents and free chipping services for removing excess vegetation. “Now is the time to take action,” Broadbent said.
“Please make this year different,” said Hector Estrada, Santa Clara County Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention. “And remember that when it comes to fireworks, it’s not worth it.”
15000 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks Seized
The Mercury News
June 26, 2021
by Rick Hurd
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/25/about-15000-pounds-of-illegal-fireworks-seized-in-bay-area-scheme/
Authorities seized about 15,000 pounds of illegal fireworks and $1 million cash and arrested two people earlier this week, authorities said Friday.
San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Jennifer Nguyen, 54, of San Jose, and Sam San, 61, of San Francisco during a two-day execution of search warrants on Wednesday and Thursday, sheriff’s office Sgt. Mike Leishman said in a statement.
Nguyen and San are suspected of possession and selling dangerous fireworks in excess of 100 pounds, possession of dangerous fireworks in excess of more than 5,000 pounds, and possession of an explosive device.
Charges have not been yet been filed formally by the San Mateo County Sheriff’s office.
Detectives also served warrants in Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Francisco counties, Leishman said. Information about whether there were additional arrests was not available immediately.
According to Leishman, Crime Suppression Unit detectives from the sheriff’s office began to investigate a major distribution network of illegal fireworks and identified Nguyen and San as part of the operation, linking them to sales of the fireworks in San Mateo County.
Surveillance by the detectives also identified two residences and an Oakland warehouse as part of the operation, Leishman said. Detectives then obtained the search warrants and began making arrests, Lieshman said.
All fireworks are illegal in nearly all of San Mateo County — safe-and-sane fireworks can be sold in Pacifica and San Bruno but not brought into other cities — and the sheriff’s office said there have been many complaints about their use this year.
Fines up to $1,000 can be issued in San Mateo County for using fireworks or hosting an event where they are used.
June 26, 2021
by Rick Hurd
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/25/about-15000-pounds-of-illegal-fireworks-seized-in-bay-area-scheme/
Authorities seized about 15,000 pounds of illegal fireworks and $1 million cash and arrested two people earlier this week, authorities said Friday.
San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Jennifer Nguyen, 54, of San Jose, and Sam San, 61, of San Francisco during a two-day execution of search warrants on Wednesday and Thursday, sheriff’s office Sgt. Mike Leishman said in a statement.
Nguyen and San are suspected of possession and selling dangerous fireworks in excess of 100 pounds, possession of dangerous fireworks in excess of more than 5,000 pounds, and possession of an explosive device.
Charges have not been yet been filed formally by the San Mateo County Sheriff’s office.
Detectives also served warrants in Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Francisco counties, Leishman said. Information about whether there were additional arrests was not available immediately.
According to Leishman, Crime Suppression Unit detectives from the sheriff’s office began to investigate a major distribution network of illegal fireworks and identified Nguyen and San as part of the operation, linking them to sales of the fireworks in San Mateo County.
Surveillance by the detectives also identified two residences and an Oakland warehouse as part of the operation, Leishman said. Detectives then obtained the search warrants and began making arrests, Lieshman said.
All fireworks are illegal in nearly all of San Mateo County — safe-and-sane fireworks can be sold in Pacifica and San Bruno but not brought into other cities — and the sheriff’s office said there have been many complaints about their use this year.
Fines up to $1,000 can be issued in San Mateo County for using fireworks or hosting an event where they are used.
Watsonville Police mobile app to report illegal fireworks
KSBW
June 25, 2021
Reporting illegal fireworks just got easier for residents in Watsonville as they're able to do so using the police department's mobile app.
Watsonville Police say the app allows community members to directly call dispatch to report fireworks-related issues.
The cities ordinance on illegal fireworks allows police to fine violators $1,000 for either igniting or possessing fireworks.
Property owners also face citations if there's evidence illegal fireworks at the property, sold there or were set off on that property.
To get the Watsonville PD app you can use the QR code below, or search "Watsonville Police" on your mobile device.
June 25, 2021
Reporting illegal fireworks just got easier for residents in Watsonville as they're able to do so using the police department's mobile app.
Watsonville Police say the app allows community members to directly call dispatch to report fireworks-related issues.
The cities ordinance on illegal fireworks allows police to fine violators $1,000 for either igniting or possessing fireworks.
Property owners also face citations if there's evidence illegal fireworks at the property, sold there or were set off on that property.
To get the Watsonville PD app you can use the QR code below, or search "Watsonville Police" on your mobile device.
What’s Going On With Illegal Fireworks in California?
“There are so many reasons why fireworks are illegal, and there are so many reasons why we should be working as a community to stop their use, especially now,” Mike Feuer, Los Angeles city attorney.
New York Times
June 17, 2021
By Priya Arora
It was after 9 p.m. on Sunday when I heard two big booms within five minutes. In this part of West Los Angeles, the sounds aren’t so familiar — and two in quick succession had me wondering: fireworks or gunshots? A quick alert from both Citizen and Ring drew comments from neighbors that confirmed it was the former: illegal fireworks, a trend that may be on the upswing as we head toward the Fourth of July.
California residents already know the struggle to rein in the use of illegal fireworks. While some cities permit “safe and sane” fireworks (like ground and hand-held sparkling devices), most parts of the state ban larger and more dangerous ones. Still, in June 2020, amid a stringent lockdown in many parts of the state as the pandemic raged, many Californians complained about a constant barrage.
In an effort to crack down on the use of illegal fireworks this summer, cities are outlining plans to protect residents and penalize offenders. Last month, the Sacramento City Council unanimously approved a new ordinance that aims to empower local law enforcement. The rules, which go into effect on June 24, will include a portion that allows the authorities to hold property owners responsible for any illegal fireworks activity on their property.
Los Angeles’s city attorney, Mike Feuer, told me this week that part of the city’s crackdown was focused on online sales. The strategy involves identifying where fireworks have been traditionally sold online, then sending cease-and-desist letters to the platforms.
Then, the agencies engage with those platforms, like Facebook and Craigslist, to both take down listings and collaborate on ways to diminish the amount of sales possible. So far, Feuer said, Los Angeles has seemingly had fewer complaints than last year, and currently has no open cases against offenders.
The Central Valley, though, may be facing a more difficult battle. Residents in Fresno have made hundreds of complaints to law enforcement agencies and City Council members in recent weeks about the almost nightly sound of popping fireworks.
“It seems to be an issue here in the Central Valley because of the availability of illegal fireworks, either through neighboring states, or through our southern border,” Paco Balderrama, Fresno’s chief of police, told me yesterday.
Fresno’s police and fire departments have started a public information campaign to raise awareness and ensure the public that this is a big deal. Additionally, Balderrama said, a joint task force of fire investigators and police officers will be tackling online ads and sales, in an attempt to confiscate illegal fireworks before the holiday.
The city also has FresGo, a free smartphone app that allows residents to report illegal fireworks. Balderrama said the task force responded to more than 200 reports last weekend, and he encouraged residents to continue using the system. Last year, the FresGo app brought in thousands of notifications, and the chief said he expected about the same level this year.
“This year is a really bad year to have this problem,” Balderrama said. In the midst of a punishing drought, the use of illegal fireworks raises the risk of fires.
Feuer, the Los Angeles city attorney, echoed warnings about the dangers of illegal fireworks — particularly in areas where tinder-dry vegetation could easily go up in flames. “There are so many reasons why fireworks are illegal, and there are so many reasons why we should be working as a community to stop their use, especially now,” he said.
June 17, 2021
By Priya Arora
It was after 9 p.m. on Sunday when I heard two big booms within five minutes. In this part of West Los Angeles, the sounds aren’t so familiar — and two in quick succession had me wondering: fireworks or gunshots? A quick alert from both Citizen and Ring drew comments from neighbors that confirmed it was the former: illegal fireworks, a trend that may be on the upswing as we head toward the Fourth of July.
California residents already know the struggle to rein in the use of illegal fireworks. While some cities permit “safe and sane” fireworks (like ground and hand-held sparkling devices), most parts of the state ban larger and more dangerous ones. Still, in June 2020, amid a stringent lockdown in many parts of the state as the pandemic raged, many Californians complained about a constant barrage.
In an effort to crack down on the use of illegal fireworks this summer, cities are outlining plans to protect residents and penalize offenders. Last month, the Sacramento City Council unanimously approved a new ordinance that aims to empower local law enforcement. The rules, which go into effect on June 24, will include a portion that allows the authorities to hold property owners responsible for any illegal fireworks activity on their property.
Los Angeles’s city attorney, Mike Feuer, told me this week that part of the city’s crackdown was focused on online sales. The strategy involves identifying where fireworks have been traditionally sold online, then sending cease-and-desist letters to the platforms.
Then, the agencies engage with those platforms, like Facebook and Craigslist, to both take down listings and collaborate on ways to diminish the amount of sales possible. So far, Feuer said, Los Angeles has seemingly had fewer complaints than last year, and currently has no open cases against offenders.
The Central Valley, though, may be facing a more difficult battle. Residents in Fresno have made hundreds of complaints to law enforcement agencies and City Council members in recent weeks about the almost nightly sound of popping fireworks.
“It seems to be an issue here in the Central Valley because of the availability of illegal fireworks, either through neighboring states, or through our southern border,” Paco Balderrama, Fresno’s chief of police, told me yesterday.
Fresno’s police and fire departments have started a public information campaign to raise awareness and ensure the public that this is a big deal. Additionally, Balderrama said, a joint task force of fire investigators and police officers will be tackling online ads and sales, in an attempt to confiscate illegal fireworks before the holiday.
The city also has FresGo, a free smartphone app that allows residents to report illegal fireworks. Balderrama said the task force responded to more than 200 reports last weekend, and he encouraged residents to continue using the system. Last year, the FresGo app brought in thousands of notifications, and the chief said he expected about the same level this year.
“This year is a really bad year to have this problem,” Balderrama said. In the midst of a punishing drought, the use of illegal fireworks raises the risk of fires.
Feuer, the Los Angeles city attorney, echoed warnings about the dangers of illegal fireworks — particularly in areas where tinder-dry vegetation could easily go up in flames. “There are so many reasons why fireworks are illegal, and there are so many reasons why we should be working as a community to stop their use, especially now,” he said.
Watsonville will fine property owners, tenants for illegal fireworks
The Pajaonian
June 16, 2021
https://pajaronian.com/wpd-will-fine-property-owners-tenants-for-illegal-fireworks/
Watsonville police will start handing out fines to tenants and property owners for illegal fireworks if there is evidence that they were bought, sold or set off at the property, the department announced Tuesday.
Before the move, an officer needed to catch someone in the act of setting off the illegal firework. Now, debris of an illegal firework, or a neighbor’s video of an illegal firework being set off at a property will be enough for an officer to give a citation.
People using illegal fireworks face a $1,000 fine per violation.
The move is expected to strengthen officers’ ability to fine people for the noisy pyrotechnics. It mirrors so-called “social host” ordinances that have been implemented in various California cities also struggling to quell illegal fireworks.
To report illegal fireworks within city limits, residents are asked to call 831-471-1511.
June 16, 2021
https://pajaronian.com/wpd-will-fine-property-owners-tenants-for-illegal-fireworks/
Watsonville police will start handing out fines to tenants and property owners for illegal fireworks if there is evidence that they were bought, sold or set off at the property, the department announced Tuesday.
Before the move, an officer needed to catch someone in the act of setting off the illegal firework. Now, debris of an illegal firework, or a neighbor’s video of an illegal firework being set off at a property will be enough for an officer to give a citation.
People using illegal fireworks face a $1,000 fine per violation.
The move is expected to strengthen officers’ ability to fine people for the noisy pyrotechnics. It mirrors so-called “social host” ordinances that have been implemented in various California cities also struggling to quell illegal fireworks.
To report illegal fireworks within city limits, residents are asked to call 831-471-1511.
Fireworks in sky are not always a celebration
Santa Cruz Sentinel | Mayor's Message
June 13, 2021
by Watsonville Mayor Jimmy Dutra
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/06/12/mayors-message-fireworks-in-sky-are-not-always-a-celebration/
Each year we hear and see an increase in fireworks throughout our community. This can be distressing to so many people and their pets. These bombs in the sky can trigger unthinkable feelings in people who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD), anxiety or other sensitivities that individuals may face. I too sit on my couch and jump as these blasts rock our city here in the Pajaro Valley.
...
We are currently experiencing an extremely dry year. I am afraid some of these fireworks set off illegally and not under a controlled environment, where fire crews are on location, will result in massive fires.
...
At the end of the day, if it is the goal for us to truly have a successful ordinance, it will take all of us to step up and be part of the solution. I want these rockets going off at all times of the day throughout the year to end as well. I am looking forward to working with our city to figure out more solutions.
Click HERE to read more.
June 13, 2021
by Watsonville Mayor Jimmy Dutra
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/06/12/mayors-message-fireworks-in-sky-are-not-always-a-celebration/
Each year we hear and see an increase in fireworks throughout our community. This can be distressing to so many people and their pets. These bombs in the sky can trigger unthinkable feelings in people who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD), anxiety or other sensitivities that individuals may face. I too sit on my couch and jump as these blasts rock our city here in the Pajaro Valley.
...
We are currently experiencing an extremely dry year. I am afraid some of these fireworks set off illegally and not under a controlled environment, where fire crews are on location, will result in massive fires.
...
At the end of the day, if it is the goal for us to truly have a successful ordinance, it will take all of us to step up and be part of the solution. I want these rockets going off at all times of the day throughout the year to end as well. I am looking forward to working with our city to figure out more solutions.
Click HERE to read more.
Watsonville struggles to quell illegal fireworks
The Pajaronian
June 11 2021
by Tony Nuñez
https://pajaronian.com/watsonville-struggles-to-quell-illegal-fireworks/
The booming explosions and aerial displays that typically ring in celebratory moments, have become a noisy plague on Watsonville residents who are calling on city government to step up its enforcement of illegal fireworks and possibly outlaw the sale of the ‘safe-and-sane’ variety.
Watsonville Mayor Jimmy Dutra says that this year the thundering pyrotechnics have indeed started earlier and are being fired up with more frequency—sometimes even brazenly during the middle of the day.
But the city has no plans to make changes to its ordinances policing illegal fireworks. It also does not plan to halt the sale of legal fireworks within city limits. Dutra says that their removal would do little to curb illegal fireworks that are putting annoyed residents and their panicking pets on edge.
Click HERE to read more.
June 11 2021
by Tony Nuñez
https://pajaronian.com/watsonville-struggles-to-quell-illegal-fireworks/
The booming explosions and aerial displays that typically ring in celebratory moments, have become a noisy plague on Watsonville residents who are calling on city government to step up its enforcement of illegal fireworks and possibly outlaw the sale of the ‘safe-and-sane’ variety.
Watsonville Mayor Jimmy Dutra says that this year the thundering pyrotechnics have indeed started earlier and are being fired up with more frequency—sometimes even brazenly during the middle of the day.
But the city has no plans to make changes to its ordinances policing illegal fireworks. It also does not plan to halt the sale of legal fireworks within city limits. Dutra says that their removal would do little to curb illegal fireworks that are putting annoyed residents and their panicking pets on edge.
Click HERE to read more.
Fireworks danger on display in ConFire demonstration
A single firework burns a simulated roof at a Contra Costa County Fire Protection District facility during a news conference in Concord, Calif.
(Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group) |
The Mercury News
June 11, 2021
by Rick Herd
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/10/fireworks-danger-on-display-in-confire-demonstration/
June 11, 2021
by Rick Herd
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/06/10/fireworks-danger-on-display-in-confire-demonstration/
With an “unprecedented” explosion of fireworks last year still echoing in their minds, Contra Costa Fire Protection District crews showed Thursday just how quickly that a single firework can erupt into a disaster.
They hope the message hits home hard with those who may be inclined to set them off on the Fourth of July and the weeks leading up to it.
“They’re illegal, they’re dangerous, and they shouldn’t be used,” Fire Chief Lewis Broschard of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said at the demonstration. “Period!”
Fire Chief Lewis Broschard of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, urges residents not to use fireworks as the Fourth of July approaches. At the demonstration, a single safe and sane fountain firework — the type that sounds like rapid gunfire — lit an entire roof on fire. Such fireworks — including sparklers — can similarly torch a house, officials said, and it happens slowly but with destructive effects.
Click HERE to read more.
They hope the message hits home hard with those who may be inclined to set them off on the Fourth of July and the weeks leading up to it.
“They’re illegal, they’re dangerous, and they shouldn’t be used,” Fire Chief Lewis Broschard of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District said at the demonstration. “Period!”
Fire Chief Lewis Broschard of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, urges residents not to use fireworks as the Fourth of July approaches. At the demonstration, a single safe and sane fountain firework — the type that sounds like rapid gunfire — lit an entire roof on fire. Such fireworks — including sparklers — can similarly torch a house, officials said, and it happens slowly but with destructive effects.
Click HERE to read more.
Illegal fireworks pollute MB Marine Sanctuary
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Letter to the Editor
June 11, 2021
This LTE is in the Sentinel print edition, but is not available online.
A reader suggested beaches be open for safe and sane fireworks, because beaches are sandy and near water and fire engines could be nearby. This person sees no fire hazard on sand and neglects to understand there is life at beaches that can be harmed before, during and after party goers ignite so-called safe and sane fireworks. The boundary of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the mean high tide line of each beach. Fireworks detritus left behind will end up in the ocean, harming marine wildlife.
With onshore winds, neighborhoods will receive smoky air carrying toxic chemicals and micro bits of plastic away from fireworks at the beach. With offshore winds, the pollution harms the Sanctuary. This is a health hazard for humans and every form of life that breathes.
Since fireworks are illegal, the something we can do differently this year is celebrate independence without harming life.
— Jean Brocklebank, Santa Cruz
Letter to the Editor
June 11, 2021
This LTE is in the Sentinel print edition, but is not available online.
A reader suggested beaches be open for safe and sane fireworks, because beaches are sandy and near water and fire engines could be nearby. This person sees no fire hazard on sand and neglects to understand there is life at beaches that can be harmed before, during and after party goers ignite so-called safe and sane fireworks. The boundary of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the mean high tide line of each beach. Fireworks detritus left behind will end up in the ocean, harming marine wildlife.
With onshore winds, neighborhoods will receive smoky air carrying toxic chemicals and micro bits of plastic away from fireworks at the beach. With offshore winds, the pollution harms the Sanctuary. This is a health hazard for humans and every form of life that breathes.
Since fireworks are illegal, the something we can do differently this year is celebrate independence without harming life.
— Jean Brocklebank, Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz County, Illegal Fireworks Are Booming
Good Times
June 8, 2021
https://goodtimes.sc/santa-cruz-news/santa-cruz-county-illegal-fireworks-booming/
When news agencies throughout the Central Coast reported that Santa Cruz County law enforcement officers had seized more than 1,100 pounds of illegal fireworks from a home on the outskirts of Watsonville last month, many residents of the county’s southernmost city were skeptical that the substantial bust had made a dent in the fireworks that go off on a daily basis.
“There’s a bunch going off tonight that they didn’t find,” one person wrote on Facebook in response to an article.
The booming explosions and pretty aerial displays that typically ring in celebratory moments and bring smiles to onlookers’ faces, have become a noisy plague on South County residents who are calling on city government to step up its enforcement of illegal fireworks and possibly outlaw the sale of the “safe-and-sane” variety.
Click HERE to read more.
June 8, 2021
https://goodtimes.sc/santa-cruz-news/santa-cruz-county-illegal-fireworks-booming/
When news agencies throughout the Central Coast reported that Santa Cruz County law enforcement officers had seized more than 1,100 pounds of illegal fireworks from a home on the outskirts of Watsonville last month, many residents of the county’s southernmost city were skeptical that the substantial bust had made a dent in the fireworks that go off on a daily basis.
“There’s a bunch going off tonight that they didn’t find,” one person wrote on Facebook in response to an article.
The booming explosions and pretty aerial displays that typically ring in celebratory moments and bring smiles to onlookers’ faces, have become a noisy plague on South County residents who are calling on city government to step up its enforcement of illegal fireworks and possibly outlaw the sale of the “safe-and-sane” variety.
Click HERE to read more.
Illegal fireworks the scourge of a neighborhood
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Letter to the Editor
May 29, 2021
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/05/29/letter-illegal-fireworks-the-scourge-of-a-neighborhood/
I was so happy to read that a large quantity of illegal, unsafe fireworks have been confiscated! They are a scourge in my Watsonville neighborhood.
— Elise Anderson, Watsonville
Letter to the Editor
May 29, 2021
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2021/05/29/letter-illegal-fireworks-the-scourge-of-a-neighborhood/
I was so happy to read that a large quantity of illegal, unsafe fireworks have been confiscated! They are a scourge in my Watsonville neighborhood.
— Elise Anderson, Watsonville
Fireworks Seized in Watsonville
KSBW
May 22, 2021
https://www.ksbw.com/article/half-a-ton-of-fireworks-seized-in-santa-cruz-county/36504393
A half-a-ton of fireworks were seized during a multi-agency search in Santa Cruz County.
According to the California Highway Patrol, more than 1,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were found in the possession of a 30-year-old Watsonville man.
The S.C.A.R.E task force (a multiagency task force consisting of CHP, Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, Watsonville PD, and the Santa Cruz County DA's Office) confiscated the items.
"With the extreme fire danger we are facing this season and lack of rainfall this winter, we are urging the public to leave the fireworks to the professionals," wrote CHP - Santa Cruz on Facebook.
May 22, 2021
https://www.ksbw.com/article/half-a-ton-of-fireworks-seized-in-santa-cruz-county/36504393
A half-a-ton of fireworks were seized during a multi-agency search in Santa Cruz County.
According to the California Highway Patrol, more than 1,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were found in the possession of a 30-year-old Watsonville man.
The S.C.A.R.E task force (a multiagency task force consisting of CHP, Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, Watsonville PD, and the Santa Cruz County DA's Office) confiscated the items.
"With the extreme fire danger we are facing this season and lack of rainfall this winter, we are urging the public to leave the fireworks to the professionals," wrote CHP - Santa Cruz on Facebook.
Here comes the boom:
Late-night explosions rain on Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Sentinel
by Jessica York
May 20, 2021
The fireball streaking across coastal California skies trailing a sonic “boom” last week may have stolen the spotlight, but the Santa Cruz area has been under siege from chronic late-night explosions for months, residents say.
Santa Cruz Police Chief Andy Mills, a downtown resident, said not only has his department been receiving regular citizen complaints about persistent loud bangs, but he himself has heard his share of the disturbances. Both the city of Santa Cruz and the region are familiar with illegally launched fireworks, particularly around holidays, weekends and especially the Fourth of July, Mills said.
“These recent booms are a little unusual in that they are really impactful. You can hear them literally all over town,” Mills said. “I’ve had some go off near our house and literally shake the house. So that is unusual. And the consistency and the frequency is certainly substantial.”
Click HERE to read more.
by Jessica York
May 20, 2021
The fireball streaking across coastal California skies trailing a sonic “boom” last week may have stolen the spotlight, but the Santa Cruz area has been under siege from chronic late-night explosions for months, residents say.
Santa Cruz Police Chief Andy Mills, a downtown resident, said not only has his department been receiving regular citizen complaints about persistent loud bangs, but he himself has heard his share of the disturbances. Both the city of Santa Cruz and the region are familiar with illegally launched fireworks, particularly around holidays, weekends and especially the Fourth of July, Mills said.
“These recent booms are a little unusual in that they are really impactful. You can hear them literally all over town,” Mills said. “I’ve had some go off near our house and literally shake the house. So that is unusual. And the consistency and the frequency is certainly substantial.”
Click HERE to read more.
San Jose will fine property owners, renters for illegal fireworks.
The Mercury News
May 13, 2021
By Maggie Angst
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/05/12/hit-people-in-their-pockets-san-jose-will-fine-property-owners-renters-for-illegal-fireworks-use/
Under an amended ordinance advanced by the San Jose City Council on Tuesday, tenants and property owners could face hefty fines for firework displays set off on their land, regardless of whether they ignited the light displays.
Those found in violation of the ordinance would be required to foot the bill for the total costs of an emergency response from police or firefighters.
Click HERE to read the full article.
May 13, 2021
By Maggie Angst
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/05/12/hit-people-in-their-pockets-san-jose-will-fine-property-owners-renters-for-illegal-fireworks-use/
Under an amended ordinance advanced by the San Jose City Council on Tuesday, tenants and property owners could face hefty fines for firework displays set off on their land, regardless of whether they ignited the light displays.
Those found in violation of the ordinance would be required to foot the bill for the total costs of an emergency response from police or firefighters.
Click HERE to read the full article.
Hundreds of dead birds cover Rome street
BBC
January 1, 2021
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-europe-55511016
Hundreds of dead birds were found lying around the Termini train station on Via Cavour in Rome on New Year's night. The exact cause of death is unclear, but Diego Finecchia believed it was linked to firework displays that took place in the city to mark the beginning of the new year.
Rome had announced a fireworks ban ahead of New Year's Eve as a means of keeping citizens, animals and the city's archaeological heritage safe, but the ban was largely ignored.
Click HERE to view the video.
Footage courtesy of Diego Finecchia
January 1, 2021
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-europe-55511016
Hundreds of dead birds were found lying around the Termini train station on Via Cavour in Rome on New Year's night. The exact cause of death is unclear, but Diego Finecchia believed it was linked to firework displays that took place in the city to mark the beginning of the new year.
Rome had announced a fireworks ban ahead of New Year's Eve as a means of keeping citizens, animals and the city's archaeological heritage safe, but the ban was largely ignored.
Click HERE to view the video.
Footage courtesy of Diego Finecchia
Norway star hurt by firework on New Year's Eve
BBC News
January 1, 2021
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-55509045
Norway and Galatasaray footballer Omar Elabdellaoui has been injured by a firework during a New Year's Eve celebration.
The Norwegian vice-captain's club said he was taken to hospital after "an unfortunate accident at his home." He suffered burns to his face and damage to his eyes, the club said, adding that further tests would assess the extent of his injuries.
The New Year's Eve incident was one of many involving fireworks in Europe.
In Elabdellaoui's case, Turkish reports say a firework exploded in the hand of the 29-year-old defender.
Turkish newspaper Hurriyet said the former Manchester City player may have lost vision, without giving further details.
But in a statement cited by the newspaper, Galatasaray said Elabdellaoui was conscious, in a stable condition and had not undergone surgery.
Elsewhere in Europe, at least four people were killed by fireworks during events to mark the new year.
Police in Alsace in eastern France said a 25-year-old man died after being hit by a rocket in the village of Boofzheim. A statement said the device beheaded him and severely injured the face of another young man standing next to him. A similar incident cost the life of a 28-year-old man in Pulle, a village east of Antwerp in Belgium.
Meanwhile in Italy's north-western province of Asti, a 13-year-old boy died shortly after midnight of injuries to his abdomen caused by a firecracker.
There were fireworks casualties in Germany as well. In the state of Brandenburg, police said a 24-year-old man died after setting alight "self-made pyrotechnics" while a 63-year-old man lost his hand when handling a firecracker.
Some European countries had moved to limit the use of fireworks ahead of 31 December, with Germany imposing a ban on the sale of pyrotechnics.
January 1, 2021
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-55509045
Norway and Galatasaray footballer Omar Elabdellaoui has been injured by a firework during a New Year's Eve celebration.
The Norwegian vice-captain's club said he was taken to hospital after "an unfortunate accident at his home." He suffered burns to his face and damage to his eyes, the club said, adding that further tests would assess the extent of his injuries.
The New Year's Eve incident was one of many involving fireworks in Europe.
In Elabdellaoui's case, Turkish reports say a firework exploded in the hand of the 29-year-old defender.
Turkish newspaper Hurriyet said the former Manchester City player may have lost vision, without giving further details.
But in a statement cited by the newspaper, Galatasaray said Elabdellaoui was conscious, in a stable condition and had not undergone surgery.
Elsewhere in Europe, at least four people were killed by fireworks during events to mark the new year.
Police in Alsace in eastern France said a 25-year-old man died after being hit by a rocket in the village of Boofzheim. A statement said the device beheaded him and severely injured the face of another young man standing next to him. A similar incident cost the life of a 28-year-old man in Pulle, a village east of Antwerp in Belgium.
Meanwhile in Italy's north-western province of Asti, a 13-year-old boy died shortly after midnight of injuries to his abdomen caused by a firecracker.
There were fireworks casualties in Germany as well. In the state of Brandenburg, police said a 24-year-old man died after setting alight "self-made pyrotechnics" while a 63-year-old man lost his hand when handling a firecracker.
Some European countries had moved to limit the use of fireworks ahead of 31 December, with Germany imposing a ban on the sale of pyrotechnics.
Lawmakers Review Enforcement, Citations For Illegal Fireworks
KBIX -TV
San Francisco
October 28, 2020
https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2020/10/28/san-jose-lawmakers-review-enforcement-citations-for-illegal-fireworks/
Illegal firework usage nearly tripled this year in San Jose compared to last year and the city needs a new way to enforce and control it.That is what San Jose leaders unanimously said on Tuesday during their City Council meeting.
“I think it’s probably time for us to think differently because obviously it isn’t working,” Mayor Sam Liccardo said.
“We have community members and neighborhood leaders who have been engaged in this for 50 years say ‘Hey guys, nobody thinks this is working.'”
Liccardo and the council voted to reevaluate the protocol for issuing citations for those using illegal fireworks — asking for more flexibility with issuing citations.
Councilmember Johnny Khamis said the increased use of illegal fireworks was likely because there were no organized firework shows on the Fourth of July as a result of COVID-19 shutdowns. He also noted that a citation was the most effective deterrent.
San Francisco
October 28, 2020
https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2020/10/28/san-jose-lawmakers-review-enforcement-citations-for-illegal-fireworks/
Illegal firework usage nearly tripled this year in San Jose compared to last year and the city needs a new way to enforce and control it.That is what San Jose leaders unanimously said on Tuesday during their City Council meeting.
“I think it’s probably time for us to think differently because obviously it isn’t working,” Mayor Sam Liccardo said.
“We have community members and neighborhood leaders who have been engaged in this for 50 years say ‘Hey guys, nobody thinks this is working.'”
Liccardo and the council voted to reevaluate the protocol for issuing citations for those using illegal fireworks — asking for more flexibility with issuing citations.
Councilmember Johnny Khamis said the increased use of illegal fireworks was likely because there were no organized firework shows on the Fourth of July as a result of COVID-19 shutdowns. He also noted that a citation was the most effective deterrent.
“Enforcement should be where it is at,” Khamis said. “Nothing discourages people more than getting a ticket.”
Click HERE for the full story.
Southern California fireworks brought spike in air pollution
Associated Press
July 9, 2020
https://apnews.com/04fed3bb14504e6ed50e35f0fbf11d29
Air quality in a wide swath of Southern California during the Fourth of July weekend was worse than in any year in the last decade and the cause was likely the increased use of personal fireworks and weather conditions, regulators said.
Public fireworks shows were canceled due to coronavirus concerns but there was extensive use of personal fireworks that produced a nonstop barrage of aerial bursts and explosions across the region for hours.
Meanwhile, dry, stagnant air trapped the pollution longer than usual, the South Coast Air Quality Management District said.
Fireworks emit high levels of particulate matter known as PM2.5 and PM10 and metal air pollutants.
Overall average concentrations of PM2.5 in the South Coast Air Basin were 70% higher than previous years between 7 p.m. on July 4 to 7 a.m. July 5, the district said. Highest concentrations were in central Los Angeles, North Hollywood and Anaheim.
“Some instruments were found to have so much particulate matter residue on them that it resulted in readings so high the data could not be properly validated,” the district said.
Air quality in overnight and early morning hours reached the categories of “very unhealthy” and “hazardous” in parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties.
The district spans Orange County and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
July 9, 2020
https://apnews.com/04fed3bb14504e6ed50e35f0fbf11d29
Air quality in a wide swath of Southern California during the Fourth of July weekend was worse than in any year in the last decade and the cause was likely the increased use of personal fireworks and weather conditions, regulators said.
Public fireworks shows were canceled due to coronavirus concerns but there was extensive use of personal fireworks that produced a nonstop barrage of aerial bursts and explosions across the region for hours.
Meanwhile, dry, stagnant air trapped the pollution longer than usual, the South Coast Air Quality Management District said.
Fireworks emit high levels of particulate matter known as PM2.5 and PM10 and metal air pollutants.
Overall average concentrations of PM2.5 in the South Coast Air Basin were 70% higher than previous years between 7 p.m. on July 4 to 7 a.m. July 5, the district said. Highest concentrations were in central Los Angeles, North Hollywood and Anaheim.
“Some instruments were found to have so much particulate matter residue on them that it resulted in readings so high the data could not be properly validated,” the district said.
Air quality in overnight and early morning hours reached the categories of “very unhealthy” and “hazardous” in parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties.
The district spans Orange County and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
Noisy Fourth of July
110 Pounds of Fireworks Seized
TPG Online Daily
July 7, 2020
https://tpgonlinedaily.com/noisy-fourth-of-july/
by Jondi Gumz
During Fourth of July weekend, Santa Cruz County deputies confiscated 110 pounds of fireworks and issued 11 citations for fireworks but residents of Rio Del Mar and Seacliff sharing their frustrations on NextDoor say it was like a war zone – again.
“We felt like we were under siege,” wrote Kim O’Meara, describing the Rio Del Mar Flats. “So many huge fire works, so much smoke we were gagging on it.”
Leslie-Anne Morgan-Erickson agreed, “The smoke was so thick I had to close all the windows.”
After she messaged the Sheriff’s Office, a fire engine drove through the area, but once it left, the fireworks started again. Firefighters drove to the area again, turning on their spotlights and getting out of the truck but once they left, the fireworks went on for 90 minutes, according to Morgan-Erickson.
“Of the 4 yrs I’ve been here for the 4th of July, this year was the worst,” she wrote.
“Smoke everywhere,” wrote Betsy Hare. “My 11yr old Havanese is terrified, shivering and crying for hours.”
Seacliff residents reported much the same.
“M80s cherry bomb blowing off everywhere,” wrote Deb Iannarelli.
“Poor dog is shaking and trying to keep her calm,” wrote Loren Morse.
“Last night was the worst I ever had getting to sleep with all the illegal pop …fireworks going on till about 2 a.m.,” wrote Pat Hanson.
“A lot of fireworks going off but mainly that’s dealt with by law enforcement,” said Mike DeMars, fire marshal with Aptos La Selva Fire Protection District.
Besides the fireworks citation and confiscations, there were 80 parking citations and seven open container citations, according to Ashley Keehn, spokeswoman for the Santa Cruz County Sheriff Office.
On Saturday night, deputies responded to a report of a bullet entering a home on Miller Avenue in Freedom within inches of a 10-year-old girl arrested Douglas Paz for negligent discharge of a firearm and resisting arrest.
Deputies say Paz was shooting into the ground to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. During a search, three guns were seized, including the revolver used, according to deputies.
The Fourth was calmer for the Santa Cruz Police Department, which reported that during the 24 hour July 4 holiday period, there were no reported major acts of violence or crime.
Officers responded to 300 calls for service, made 10 arrests, for disorderly conduct, and issued six citations.
Police estimated beach crowds at their peak were around 5,000, far less than in year’s past.
July 7, 2020
https://tpgonlinedaily.com/noisy-fourth-of-july/
by Jondi Gumz
During Fourth of July weekend, Santa Cruz County deputies confiscated 110 pounds of fireworks and issued 11 citations for fireworks but residents of Rio Del Mar and Seacliff sharing their frustrations on NextDoor say it was like a war zone – again.
“We felt like we were under siege,” wrote Kim O’Meara, describing the Rio Del Mar Flats. “So many huge fire works, so much smoke we were gagging on it.”
Leslie-Anne Morgan-Erickson agreed, “The smoke was so thick I had to close all the windows.”
After she messaged the Sheriff’s Office, a fire engine drove through the area, but once it left, the fireworks started again. Firefighters drove to the area again, turning on their spotlights and getting out of the truck but once they left, the fireworks went on for 90 minutes, according to Morgan-Erickson.
“Of the 4 yrs I’ve been here for the 4th of July, this year was the worst,” she wrote.
“Smoke everywhere,” wrote Betsy Hare. “My 11yr old Havanese is terrified, shivering and crying for hours.”
Seacliff residents reported much the same.
“M80s cherry bomb blowing off everywhere,” wrote Deb Iannarelli.
“Poor dog is shaking and trying to keep her calm,” wrote Loren Morse.
“Last night was the worst I ever had getting to sleep with all the illegal pop …fireworks going on till about 2 a.m.,” wrote Pat Hanson.
“A lot of fireworks going off but mainly that’s dealt with by law enforcement,” said Mike DeMars, fire marshal with Aptos La Selva Fire Protection District.
Besides the fireworks citation and confiscations, there were 80 parking citations and seven open container citations, according to Ashley Keehn, spokeswoman for the Santa Cruz County Sheriff Office.
On Saturday night, deputies responded to a report of a bullet entering a home on Miller Avenue in Freedom within inches of a 10-year-old girl arrested Douglas Paz for negligent discharge of a firearm and resisting arrest.
Deputies say Paz was shooting into the ground to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. During a search, three guns were seized, including the revolver used, according to deputies.
The Fourth was calmer for the Santa Cruz Police Department, which reported that during the 24 hour July 4 holiday period, there were no reported major acts of violence or crime.
Officers responded to 300 calls for service, made 10 arrests, for disorderly conduct, and issued six citations.
Police estimated beach crowds at their peak were around 5,000, far less than in year’s past.
Illegal fireworks keep local law enforcement busy on Fourth
The Pajaronian
July 6, 2020
by Tony Nuñez
https://pajaronian.com/illegal-fireworks-keep-local-law-enforcement-busy-on-fourth/
Watsonville firefighters had a “very busy Fourth of July” as they responded to a total of 24 calls in the 24-hour period surrounding the holiday, including medical calls and fires to vegetation, dumpsters and structures. Units were also out patrolling for illegal firework use to prevent fires from happening.
That’s according to Watsonville Police spokeswoman Michelle Pulido, who added that officers handed out 27 citations for illegal fireworks, each of which was as high as $1,000.
The confiscated fireworks have been turned over to Cal Fire for proper disposal, Pulido said.
In the unincorporated parts of the county, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies wrote 11 citations and confiscated 110 pounds of illegal fireworks, said spokeswoman Ashley Keehn.
They also wrote 80 parking citations, while seven went to people with open containers of alcohol.
Deputies did all of this while also responding to 280 calls for service, Keehn said.
The City of Santa Cruz reported that approximately 5,000 people gathered on the city’s beaches, a far smaller number than in past holidays, Santa Cruz Police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said.
The city reported no major acts of violence or crime as police responded to approximately 300 calls for service, made 10 arrests and issued six citations.
Most of the arrests were for disorderly conduct, Blaschke said.
July 6, 2020
by Tony Nuñez
https://pajaronian.com/illegal-fireworks-keep-local-law-enforcement-busy-on-fourth/
Watsonville firefighters had a “very busy Fourth of July” as they responded to a total of 24 calls in the 24-hour period surrounding the holiday, including medical calls and fires to vegetation, dumpsters and structures. Units were also out patrolling for illegal firework use to prevent fires from happening.
That’s according to Watsonville Police spokeswoman Michelle Pulido, who added that officers handed out 27 citations for illegal fireworks, each of which was as high as $1,000.
The confiscated fireworks have been turned over to Cal Fire for proper disposal, Pulido said.
In the unincorporated parts of the county, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies wrote 11 citations and confiscated 110 pounds of illegal fireworks, said spokeswoman Ashley Keehn.
They also wrote 80 parking citations, while seven went to people with open containers of alcohol.
Deputies did all of this while also responding to 280 calls for service, Keehn said.
The City of Santa Cruz reported that approximately 5,000 people gathered on the city’s beaches, a far smaller number than in past holidays, Santa Cruz Police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said.
The city reported no major acts of violence or crime as police responded to approximately 300 calls for service, made 10 arrests and issued six citations.
Most of the arrests were for disorderly conduct, Blaschke said.
Bay Area crews overwhelmed by dozens of fireworks-sparked fires
Bay City News Service
July 5, 2020
As multiple fires burned in Bay Area cities and counties Saturday night, firefighters scrambled to keep up, with one East Bay fire department reducing responses to all but structure fires due to the overwhelming volume of fires.
San Francisco fire officials reported to 110 fires, including grass fires and structure fires, between 3 p.m. July 4 and 3 a.m. July 5. The San Francisco Fire Department wrote on Twitter Sunday morning that two fires were caused by burning food and the rest were started by fireworks.
Click HERE for the article.
July 5, 2020
As multiple fires burned in Bay Area cities and counties Saturday night, firefighters scrambled to keep up, with one East Bay fire department reducing responses to all but structure fires due to the overwhelming volume of fires.
San Francisco fire officials reported to 110 fires, including grass fires and structure fires, between 3 p.m. July 4 and 3 a.m. July 5. The San Francisco Fire Department wrote on Twitter Sunday morning that two fires were caused by burning food and the rest were started by fireworks.
Click HERE for the article.
Fireworks Cause Fires Throughout San Francisco
July 5, 2020
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) — The city’s annual July 4th fireworks show on the Embarcadero may have been cancelled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t stop residents from lighting up the skies with illegal fireworks.
Unfortunately, those fireworks also sparked more than a dozen fires throughout the city. One of the largest was a four-acre blaze in Mclaren Park which was halted as it approached several homes in the neighborhood.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/july-4th-san-francisco-firefighters-battling-numerous-blazes-triggered-by-illegal-fireworks/ar-BB16lDlW
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) — The city’s annual July 4th fireworks show on the Embarcadero may have been cancelled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t stop residents from lighting up the skies with illegal fireworks.
Unfortunately, those fireworks also sparked more than a dozen fires throughout the city. One of the largest was a four-acre blaze in Mclaren Park which was halted as it approached several homes in the neighborhood.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/july-4th-san-francisco-firefighters-battling-numerous-blazes-triggered-by-illegal-fireworks/ar-BB16lDlW
He Was Playing With Fireworks. One Flew Into His Home
New York Times
Ed Shanahan
July 2, 2020
In footage released by the Fire Department, flames rise in the Brooklyn house, a striking example of the dangers posed by the proliferation of fireworks.
Footage released by the Fire Department shows a man firing a fireworks blast through an open window and starting a fire that destroyed a house.
Three people stand in a driveway between two houses in Brooklyn.
One of them, his right hand raised in the air, shoots several fireworks into the sky. Then his arm drops toward the ground, and his next burst goes through an open window into one of the homes.
What follows, in a video of the incident, is a striking example of the dangers posed by the amateur pyrotechnic displays that are rattling New York’s neighborhoods, prompting officials to initiate a citywide crackdown.
Click HERE for the article and the video.
Ed Shanahan
July 2, 2020
In footage released by the Fire Department, flames rise in the Brooklyn house, a striking example of the dangers posed by the proliferation of fireworks.
Footage released by the Fire Department shows a man firing a fireworks blast through an open window and starting a fire that destroyed a house.
Three people stand in a driveway between two houses in Brooklyn.
One of them, his right hand raised in the air, shoots several fireworks into the sky. Then his arm drops toward the ground, and his next burst goes through an open window into one of the homes.
What follows, in a video of the incident, is a striking example of the dangers posed by the amateur pyrotechnic displays that are rattling New York’s neighborhoods, prompting officials to initiate a citywide crackdown.
Click HERE for the article and the video.
Watsonville is wrong to encourage fireworks sales
Santa Cruz Sentinel | As You See It
July 1, 2020
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2020/07/01/letter-watsonville-is-wrong-to-encourage-fireworks-sales/
Another Fourth of July approaches, fire danger is extremely high, the winds are blowing strong, and Watsonville is again encouraging fireworks by allowing them to be sold in the city. This is utter insanity!
Yes, I know they’re “safe and sane” and not allowed outside the city, but come on! People buy them and fire them off near wooded areas and everywhere else, and we know that we’ll have some fires as a result. And their availability encourages some to buy illegal and more dangerous versions. This is crazy.
— Gary Hillerson, Corralitos
July 1, 2020
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2020/07/01/letter-watsonville-is-wrong-to-encourage-fireworks-sales/
Another Fourth of July approaches, fire danger is extremely high, the winds are blowing strong, and Watsonville is again encouraging fireworks by allowing them to be sold in the city. This is utter insanity!
Yes, I know they’re “safe and sane” and not allowed outside the city, but come on! People buy them and fire them off near wooded areas and everywhere else, and we know that we’ll have some fires as a result. And their availability encourages some to buy illegal and more dangerous versions. This is crazy.
— Gary Hillerson, Corralitos
All fireworks shows cancelled in Bay Area
SFGATE
June 29, 2020
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/fireworks-2020-Bay-Area-San-Francisco-15374219.php
By Amy Graff
The skies are forecast to be clear in the Bay Area on Saturday, even in San Francisco that has a reputation for being socked in with fog on July 4.
Despite the fireworks-friendly forecast, there won't be any dazzling displays of color lighting up San Francisco Bay.
Fireworks shows across the region are cancelled to discourage large gatherings amid the coronavirus pandemic. None of the big annual shows at the Berkeley Marina, Marin County Fair, Sausalito waterfront and San Francisco's Aquatic Park will take place.
Small-town celebrations—including fireworks, parades and festivals—have also been cancelled. Many cities are hosting virtual events including Concord, Foster City, Fremont, Gilroy, Orinda, Morgan Hill, Pleasant Hill and Redwood City, according to a list compiled by ABC 7 News.
June 29, 2020
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/fireworks-2020-Bay-Area-San-Francisco-15374219.php
By Amy Graff
The skies are forecast to be clear in the Bay Area on Saturday, even in San Francisco that has a reputation for being socked in with fog on July 4.
Despite the fireworks-friendly forecast, there won't be any dazzling displays of color lighting up San Francisco Bay.
Fireworks shows across the region are cancelled to discourage large gatherings amid the coronavirus pandemic. None of the big annual shows at the Berkeley Marina, Marin County Fair, Sausalito waterfront and San Francisco's Aquatic Park will take place.
Small-town celebrations—including fireworks, parades and festivals—have also been cancelled. Many cities are hosting virtual events including Concord, Foster City, Fremont, Gilroy, Orinda, Morgan Hill, Pleasant Hill and Redwood City, according to a list compiled by ABC 7 News.
A Big Fireworks Pollution Question Will Be Answered Next Weekend
Cliff Mass Weather Blog
June 28, 2020
https://cliffmass.blogspot.com/2020/06/a-big-fireworks-pollution-question-will.html
Every year there is a major air pollution spike [in Seattle] on the fourth of July, with small particles (PM2.5) surging during the evening. To illustrate, here are the concentrations of small particles (PM2.5, sizes less than 2.5 microns) for June 15 to July 15th for 2018 and 2019. Huge upticks of pollution for late July 4th and early July 5th.
2019
June 28, 2020
https://cliffmass.blogspot.com/2020/06/a-big-fireworks-pollution-question-will.html
Every year there is a major air pollution spike [in Seattle] on the fourth of July, with small particles (PM2.5) surging during the evening. To illustrate, here are the concentrations of small particles (PM2.5, sizes less than 2.5 microns) for June 15 to July 15th for 2018 and 2019. Huge upticks of pollution for late July 4th and early July 5th.
2019
2018
These high levels of small particles are quite unhealthful, aggravating ailments such as asthma and heart disease.
There are, of course, two sources of such fireworks pollution: large community displays and personal fireworks. The former typically use large shells propelled by large mortars, injecting more particles higher into the atmosphere. Personal fireworks are more numerous and widespread, but the densest concentrations of pollutants are near the surface.
I have always wondered: what are the relative contributions of the professional/community displays versus personal fireworks in terms of contributions to air pollution and the big spikes in particles (like shown above). It was difficult to secure an answer because both happened at the same time.
But this year, a controlled experiment is going to take place on July 4th: most community fireworks displayed were cancelled, while there are reports of "healthy" sales of personal fireworks. Will there be a similar peak in pollutants? Will air quality decline more because folks will go for big shows to provide distraction from all their current troubles? We will know by next Sunday.
There are, of course, two sources of such fireworks pollution: large community displays and personal fireworks. The former typically use large shells propelled by large mortars, injecting more particles higher into the atmosphere. Personal fireworks are more numerous and widespread, but the densest concentrations of pollutants are near the surface.
I have always wondered: what are the relative contributions of the professional/community displays versus personal fireworks in terms of contributions to air pollution and the big spikes in particles (like shown above). It was difficult to secure an answer because both happened at the same time.
But this year, a controlled experiment is going to take place on July 4th: most community fireworks displayed were cancelled, while there are reports of "healthy" sales of personal fireworks. Will there be a similar peak in pollutants? Will air quality decline more because folks will go for big shows to provide distraction from all their current troubles? We will know by next Sunday.
Fireworks complaints surge in US cities
But residents of New York, Oakland and other US cities have shared concerns on social media about an uptick in night-time pyrotechnics.
It is not immediately clear what is causing the sudden boom in activity.
Click HERE to read more.
It is not immediately clear what is causing the sudden boom in activity.
Click HERE to read more.
Yes, You’re Hearing Way More Fireworks Than Usual
Slate
June 17, 2020
By Jeff Friedrich
Every day is Independence Day this summer.
Everyone in my neighborhood in Boston—not just the narcs and NIMBYs on my local NextDoor—is convinced they’re hearing way more fireworks this year. It turns out we’re not imagining it: Boston police recorded 1,445 fireworks complaints in the first week of June, compared with just 22 in the same week last year, the Boston Herald reported last week. This seems to have started when the weather began warming up—complaints in May were also up by more than 2,300 percent compared with May 2019—and it’ll only continue as we near a July 4 in which organized fireworks displays are yet another casualty of this semi-reopened pandemic summer.
Click HERE to read more.
June 17, 2020
By Jeff Friedrich
Every day is Independence Day this summer.
Everyone in my neighborhood in Boston—not just the narcs and NIMBYs on my local NextDoor—is convinced they’re hearing way more fireworks this year. It turns out we’re not imagining it: Boston police recorded 1,445 fireworks complaints in the first week of June, compared with just 22 in the same week last year, the Boston Herald reported last week. This seems to have started when the weather began warming up—complaints in May were also up by more than 2,300 percent compared with May 2019—and it’ll only continue as we near a July 4 in which organized fireworks displays are yet another casualty of this semi-reopened pandemic summer.
Click HERE to read more.
British man killed by firework exploding in his face
Metro
January 1, 2020
A British man has died during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Thailand after a firework exploded close to his body.
Gary McLaren, 50, was ringing in the New Year with friends in the nightlife resort of Pattaya, eastern Thailand, on December 31.
Witness Wassana Nguantai, 24, told The Pattaya News he was killed while attempting to light a firework cylinder in the street.
She said he had just stepped outside of the Miami A Gogo strip club to join people celebrating the arrival of 2020 when he produced the 50cm tube full of rocket fireworks.
The witness added that Mr McLaren tried to light the cylinder twice but was unsuccessful.
On his third attempt the firework exploded in his face, knocking him backwards onto the ground.
Click HERE to read the full story.
January 1, 2020
A British man has died during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Thailand after a firework exploded close to his body.
Gary McLaren, 50, was ringing in the New Year with friends in the nightlife resort of Pattaya, eastern Thailand, on December 31.
Witness Wassana Nguantai, 24, told The Pattaya News he was killed while attempting to light a firework cylinder in the street.
She said he had just stepped outside of the Miami A Gogo strip club to join people celebrating the arrival of 2020 when he produced the 50cm tube full of rocket fireworks.
The witness added that Mr McLaren tried to light the cylinder twice but was unsuccessful.
On his third attempt the firework exploded in his face, knocking him backwards onto the ground.
Click HERE to read the full story.
How fireworks harm nonhuman animals
Animal Ethics
December 30, 2019
Fireworks and other explosive materials, whose reactions can produce sparks, flames, and fumes, cause various harms to nonhuman animals. These often affect animals who are human companions, and whose reactions we can easily see. They also harm the other animals who are around us, both in urban environments and outside them, as well as those who are on farms or confined in other spaces.
Click HERE to read the article.
December 30, 2019
Fireworks and other explosive materials, whose reactions can produce sparks, flames, and fumes, cause various harms to nonhuman animals. These often affect animals who are human companions, and whose reactions we can easily see. They also harm the other animals who are around us, both in urban environments and outside them, as well as those who are on farms or confined in other spaces.
Click HERE to read the article.
Illegal fireworks more than whimsical self-indulgence
Santa Cruz Sentinel | As You See It
July 11, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/10/new-santa-cruz-initiative-supporting-library-project-launches/
Reporter Michael Todd’s use of the word debauchery (excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures) to describe violations of the fireworks ordinances by countless residents, as though such acts are just whimsical self-indulgence, minimizes and almost glorifies the actions of those who continue to do this year after year and brag about it. Contrary to Todd’s July 5 news story, Santa Cruz was most certainly not “legally” festive on the Fourth, as witness the sky filled with explosions, plus the unhealthful particulate aftermath of hours of fireworks in every part of the county.
Wildlife, pets and people had to bear the annual war zone. For every call that was logged, there were 10 calls not made by residents overwhelmed by the futility of it all.
That said, less volume of trash generated this year is certainly something to celebrate, indicating that while this horrible annual problem is not solved, there is slow and steady growing awareness of the awful environmental destructiveness of blowing up the sky for thrills.
In addition, special appreciation goes to the city and county for pre-fourth media releases and to all law enforcement officers for their hard work on the Fourth.
— Jean Brocklebank, Santa Cruz
July 11, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/10/new-santa-cruz-initiative-supporting-library-project-launches/
Reporter Michael Todd’s use of the word debauchery (excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures) to describe violations of the fireworks ordinances by countless residents, as though such acts are just whimsical self-indulgence, minimizes and almost glorifies the actions of those who continue to do this year after year and brag about it. Contrary to Todd’s July 5 news story, Santa Cruz was most certainly not “legally” festive on the Fourth, as witness the sky filled with explosions, plus the unhealthful particulate aftermath of hours of fireworks in every part of the county.
Wildlife, pets and people had to bear the annual war zone. For every call that was logged, there were 10 calls not made by residents overwhelmed by the futility of it all.
That said, less volume of trash generated this year is certainly something to celebrate, indicating that while this horrible annual problem is not solved, there is slow and steady growing awareness of the awful environmental destructiveness of blowing up the sky for thrills.
In addition, special appreciation goes to the city and county for pre-fourth media releases and to all law enforcement officers for their hard work on the Fourth.
— Jean Brocklebank, Santa Cruz
Fireworks on beach are inappropriate, dangerous
Santa Cruz Sentinel | As You See It
July 7, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/08/letter-fireworks-on-beach-are-inappropriate-dangerous/
I got a little tweaked on the Fourth of July when I read a letter advocating for making fireworks on the beach legal again. There can be a time and place for a well-managed firework display like the one Capitola hosts annually in October.
But, fireworks in the hands of partygoers and children on the beach is inappropriate under any circumstance.
My concern goes beyond the mess that organizations like Save Our Shores and our many volunteers are left to clean up. It is exemplified in an incident that occurred July 5 on Cowell Beach.
As we and volunteers cleaned up after the holiday litter fest, a group of revelers shot off fireworks aimed at our volunteers.
The good news: no one got hurt — this time. The bad news: the police had virtually no concern when my staff reported the incident. We can do better than this for our ocean paradise community.
— Katherine O’Dea, Santa Cruz
July 7, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/08/letter-fireworks-on-beach-are-inappropriate-dangerous/
I got a little tweaked on the Fourth of July when I read a letter advocating for making fireworks on the beach legal again. There can be a time and place for a well-managed firework display like the one Capitola hosts annually in October.
But, fireworks in the hands of partygoers and children on the beach is inappropriate under any circumstance.
My concern goes beyond the mess that organizations like Save Our Shores and our many volunteers are left to clean up. It is exemplified in an incident that occurred July 5 on Cowell Beach.
As we and volunteers cleaned up after the holiday litter fest, a group of revelers shot off fireworks aimed at our volunteers.
The good news: no one got hurt — this time. The bad news: the police had virtually no concern when my staff reported the incident. We can do better than this for our ocean paradise community.
— Katherine O’Dea, Santa Cruz
The Fourth has been stripped of all meaning
Santa Cruz Sentinel | As You See It
July 7, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/06/letter-the-fourth-has-been-stripped-of-all-meaning/
Oh, now I get it. The reason we took up arms against the British and fought for our independence was for some future yahoo’s right to set off weapons- grade mortars, which traumatize our pets and wreck our sleep. The Fourth, having been stripped of all its historical meaning, has become Any Holiday, replete with mattress sales, gluttony, beach trashing, and blowing up stuff. One wonders, if Paul Revere had a second chance to make his mythical ride again, would he?
— Timothy Rudolph, Santa Cruz
July 7, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/06/letter-the-fourth-has-been-stripped-of-all-meaning/
Oh, now I get it. The reason we took up arms against the British and fought for our independence was for some future yahoo’s right to set off weapons- grade mortars, which traumatize our pets and wreck our sleep. The Fourth, having been stripped of all its historical meaning, has become Any Holiday, replete with mattress sales, gluttony, beach trashing, and blowing up stuff. One wonders, if Paul Revere had a second chance to make his mythical ride again, would he?
— Timothy Rudolph, Santa Cruz
Fireworks violations decline in Santa Cruz
Minimal post-holiday beach cleanup required in city, South County
Santa Cruz Sentinel
July 5, 2019
By Michael Todd
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/05/fireworks-violations-decline-in-santa-cruz/
For the third year, the Fourth of July in Santa Cruz was legally festive with declining calls for service and fewer triple-fine citations related to alcohol and illegal fireworks than previous holidays — even those falling mid-week.The Sentinel previously reported annually the debauchery at Main Beach, where fireworks displays often became violent and drove headlines such as, “Bizarre scene at the beach” to describe warfare by cherry bombs and bottle rockets.
July 5, 2019
By Michael Todd
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/05/fireworks-violations-decline-in-santa-cruz/
For the third year, the Fourth of July in Santa Cruz was legally festive with declining calls for service and fewer triple-fine citations related to alcohol and illegal fireworks than previous holidays — even those falling mid-week.The Sentinel previously reported annually the debauchery at Main Beach, where fireworks displays often became violent and drove headlines such as, “Bizarre scene at the beach” to describe warfare by cherry bombs and bottle rockets.
Independence Day revelers left only a few bags of trash on Cowell Beach for volunteers to collect Friday morning. (Dan Coyro — Santa Cruz Sentinel)
|
Crowds at Main Beach and Seabright Beach throughout the afternoon cleared out by dusk, Santa Cruz police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said in a release.
The typical mess left on county beaches after the holiday was mitigated more this year than in year’s past, but it isn’t clear why. At Cowell Beach, which offers a few bins, there was minimal rubbish left behind. At Hidden Beach in the Rio Del Mar area, it was a similar story. A few other beaches in the South County area had trash left by the few cans available.
The typical mess left on county beaches after the holiday was mitigated more this year than in year’s past, but it isn’t clear why. At Cowell Beach, which offers a few bins, there was minimal rubbish left behind. At Hidden Beach in the Rio Del Mar area, it was a similar story. A few other beaches in the South County area had trash left by the few cans available.
Trash was left neatly bagged and stacked against a single trash container at Hidden Beach in Rio Del Mar early Friday morning. (Dan Coyro — Santa Cruz Sentinel)
|
In the city, there was one felony arrest, three misdemeanor arrests — mostly for public intoxication — and 24 infractions, mostly for open containers of alcoholic drinks, Blaschke said.
The city imposed triple fines for certain violations related to unlawful revelry that used to plague the city on Independence Day.
The city imposed triple fines for certain violations related to unlawful revelry that used to plague the city on Independence Day.
Rio Del Mar beachgoers left trash stacked near the Flats parking lot, where the few trash bins were inadequate to handle the heavy traffic of the holiday. (Dan Coyro — Santa Cruz Sentinel)
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There were eight triple fines — the majority were alcohol or fireworks-related — in Santa Cruz, Blaschke said.
By comparison, last year there were 15 triple fines on the fourth; in 2017, police issued 41 triple fines the same period in Santa Cruz. The increased enforcement lasted Thursday to 3 a.m. Friday. During that time, most triple-fine citations were for alcohol or fireworks.
This year’s 24 infractions rose from 27 last year and 58 in 2017, when July 4 fell on a Tuesday and drew much smaller crowds than Thursday’s gatherers.
There were no “significant incidents to report” last year as well as Thursday, police have said.
By comparison, last year there were 15 triple fines on the fourth; in 2017, police issued 41 triple fines the same period in Santa Cruz. The increased enforcement lasted Thursday to 3 a.m. Friday. During that time, most triple-fine citations were for alcohol or fireworks.
This year’s 24 infractions rose from 27 last year and 58 in 2017, when July 4 fell on a Tuesday and drew much smaller crowds than Thursday’s gatherers.
There were no “significant incidents to report” last year as well as Thursday, police have said.
Independence Day revelers at Rio Del Mar Beach brought their trash from the beach and left it near the few available trash bins. (Dan Coyro — Santa Cruz Sentinel)
|
All available police officers worked the holiday and fireworks complaints were received across the city.
Unincorporated areaSanta Cruz County Sheriff’s Office reported busy shifts from 6 a.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday, however.
There were 187 calls for service in the unincorporated part of the county — area covered by the Sheriff’s Office — during that time, Sgt. Dee Baldwin said. Of those calls, 63 stemmed from illegal fireworks. The county and in Santa Cruz banned all fireworks this holiday. Watsonville permitted fireworks deemed safe and sane.
Deputies issued 16 citations for fireworks, drugs or alcohol Thursday to Friday morning; 10 people were arrested for similar crimes, and assault, Baldwin said.
There were 35 people booked at Santa Cruz County Jail during the holiday. In addition, 13 people were diverted to the area’s sobering center, Baldwin said.
Deputies confiscated 250 pounds of illegal fireworks, Baldwin said.
Unincorporated areaSanta Cruz County Sheriff’s Office reported busy shifts from 6 a.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday, however.
There were 187 calls for service in the unincorporated part of the county — area covered by the Sheriff’s Office — during that time, Sgt. Dee Baldwin said. Of those calls, 63 stemmed from illegal fireworks. The county and in Santa Cruz banned all fireworks this holiday. Watsonville permitted fireworks deemed safe and sane.
Deputies issued 16 citations for fireworks, drugs or alcohol Thursday to Friday morning; 10 people were arrested for similar crimes, and assault, Baldwin said.
There were 35 people booked at Santa Cruz County Jail during the holiday. In addition, 13 people were diverted to the area’s sobering center, Baldwin said.
Deputies confiscated 250 pounds of illegal fireworks, Baldwin said.
Fireworks crackdown on Fourth of July holiday
Fines triple for debauchery during July Fourth
Santa Cruz Sentinel
July 2, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/01/santa-cruz-fireworks-crackdown-an-independence-day-tradition/
Santa Cruz County and city authorities remind Independence Day revelers not to set off fireworks a year after the state’s deadliest and most destructive wildfires ripped through cities in Northern California neighborhoods.
Fireworks-suppression teams will assemble to monitor unincorporated Santa Cruz County and the city of Santa Cruz. Fines up to $1,000 will be issued for activities linked with illegal fireworks use and unlawful partying.
The crackle and hiss of unlawful fireworks already has been rattling neighborhoods flanking the mostly remote North Coast.
“We’ve already begun seeing an increase for calls for service for fireworks,” said Sgt. Dee Baldwin of the Sheriff’s Office.
Only in Watsonville are fireworks deemed “safe and sane” allowed on Independence Day. In the city of Santa Cruz and unincorporated parts of the county, even “safe and sane” fireworks are illegal.
Watsonville still has restrictions and has “zero tolerance” on the miss-use of fireworks within the city limits of Watsonville. The fine for each violation is $1,000 and fines cannot be waved, according to the city.
Common violations include:
• Allowing someone under 18 to light fireworks.
• Lighting illegal fireworks.
• Lighting fireworks within 10feet of any residence.
• Using fireworks outside of the approved time (midnight June 30to midnight July 5).
“Enforcement priorities include possession of fireworks, public intoxication, consuming alcohol in public and open containers,” Baldwin said.
Baldwin issued a release warning against behaviors resulting in costly citations: No fireworks of any kind are allowed in unincorporated Santa Cruz County, including North Coast beaches, Bonny Doon, San Lorenzo Valley, Live Oak, Soquel, Aptos, Corralitos and Freedom.
And … “No drunkenness,” Baldwin said. “You can’t argue with drunks, so we won’t — we will just take them away. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on County beaches or in public outside commercial establishments or residences.”
Likewise, no explosives are allowed. “If you see what looks like a homemade explosive, stay back, call 911 and wait for law enforcement,” Baldwin said. “Every year, our Bomb Team responds to homemade devices, often made with gunpowder: (This is) dangerous and stupid.”
No trash is allowed on local beaches. Recently, a trip to Davenport Beach showed troves of visitors leaving piles of rubbish in the sand.
“Every year our wonderful locals clean up after people who trash our beaches and neighborhoods,” Baldwin said. “You can have a good time without ruining it for someone else.”
Santa Cruz police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke warned, in a release, “Don’t blow it. All fireworks are illegal citywide.”
Triple fines — for violations relating to partying and setting off fireworks — will be in place all of July 4 to 3 a.m. July 5, Blaschke said. The increased fines have become a city tradition during Independence Day and Halloween — holidays that used to be characterized by debauchery in Santa Cruz.
“Santa Cruz police and fire inspectors will be out in force the days leading up to and on July 4th to ensure that community members and visitors enjoy a safe holiday experience,” Blaschke said. “Every available officer will be proactively enforcing all violations designated for triple fines.
Fines will be triple for:
• Fireworks possession.
• Having open containers of alcoholic drinks in public areas.
• Graffiti.
• Noise violations.
• Trespassing.
• Misconduct on public property.
• Urinating or defecating in public.
Anyone who witnesses the discharge of illegal fireworks is asked to call the police non-emergency line at 831-471-1131.
July 2, 2019
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2019/07/01/santa-cruz-fireworks-crackdown-an-independence-day-tradition/
Santa Cruz County and city authorities remind Independence Day revelers not to set off fireworks a year after the state’s deadliest and most destructive wildfires ripped through cities in Northern California neighborhoods.
Fireworks-suppression teams will assemble to monitor unincorporated Santa Cruz County and the city of Santa Cruz. Fines up to $1,000 will be issued for activities linked with illegal fireworks use and unlawful partying.
The crackle and hiss of unlawful fireworks already has been rattling neighborhoods flanking the mostly remote North Coast.
“We’ve already begun seeing an increase for calls for service for fireworks,” said Sgt. Dee Baldwin of the Sheriff’s Office.
Only in Watsonville are fireworks deemed “safe and sane” allowed on Independence Day. In the city of Santa Cruz and unincorporated parts of the county, even “safe and sane” fireworks are illegal.
Watsonville still has restrictions and has “zero tolerance” on the miss-use of fireworks within the city limits of Watsonville. The fine for each violation is $1,000 and fines cannot be waved, according to the city.
Common violations include:
• Allowing someone under 18 to light fireworks.
• Lighting illegal fireworks.
• Lighting fireworks within 10feet of any residence.
• Using fireworks outside of the approved time (midnight June 30to midnight July 5).
“Enforcement priorities include possession of fireworks, public intoxication, consuming alcohol in public and open containers,” Baldwin said.
Baldwin issued a release warning against behaviors resulting in costly citations: No fireworks of any kind are allowed in unincorporated Santa Cruz County, including North Coast beaches, Bonny Doon, San Lorenzo Valley, Live Oak, Soquel, Aptos, Corralitos and Freedom.
And … “No drunkenness,” Baldwin said. “You can’t argue with drunks, so we won’t — we will just take them away. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on County beaches or in public outside commercial establishments or residences.”
Likewise, no explosives are allowed. “If you see what looks like a homemade explosive, stay back, call 911 and wait for law enforcement,” Baldwin said. “Every year, our Bomb Team responds to homemade devices, often made with gunpowder: (This is) dangerous and stupid.”
No trash is allowed on local beaches. Recently, a trip to Davenport Beach showed troves of visitors leaving piles of rubbish in the sand.
“Every year our wonderful locals clean up after people who trash our beaches and neighborhoods,” Baldwin said. “You can have a good time without ruining it for someone else.”
Santa Cruz police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke warned, in a release, “Don’t blow it. All fireworks are illegal citywide.”
Triple fines — for violations relating to partying and setting off fireworks — will be in place all of July 4 to 3 a.m. July 5, Blaschke said. The increased fines have become a city tradition during Independence Day and Halloween — holidays that used to be characterized by debauchery in Santa Cruz.
“Santa Cruz police and fire inspectors will be out in force the days leading up to and on July 4th to ensure that community members and visitors enjoy a safe holiday experience,” Blaschke said. “Every available officer will be proactively enforcing all violations designated for triple fines.
Fines will be triple for:
• Fireworks possession.
• Having open containers of alcoholic drinks in public areas.
• Graffiti.
• Noise violations.
• Trespassing.
• Misconduct on public property.
• Urinating or defecating in public.
Anyone who witnesses the discharge of illegal fireworks is asked to call the police non-emergency line at 831-471-1131.
Illegal fireworks cause two-alarm Antioch fire
San Jose Mercury News
https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/06/15/illegal-fireworks-cause-2-alarm-antioch-fire/
June 16, 2019
ANTIOCH — Illegal fireworks are the cause of a blaze that started in eastern Antioch on Saturday afternoon, according to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.
The two-alarm fire was reported at about 2 p.m. in the 1300 block of Trembath Lane, according to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s social media. The fire started as a vegetation fire and spread to a nearby home and shed. Damage was limited to a single residence and neighboring small shed; however, Con Fire says 10 homes along the block were threatened.
Firefighters reported the blaze contained at around 3 p.m. and asked people to avoid the area as extensive mopping was ongoing. Con Fire reminds residents that all fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County.
https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/06/15/illegal-fireworks-cause-2-alarm-antioch-fire/
June 16, 2019
ANTIOCH — Illegal fireworks are the cause of a blaze that started in eastern Antioch on Saturday afternoon, according to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.
The two-alarm fire was reported at about 2 p.m. in the 1300 block of Trembath Lane, according to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s social media. The fire started as a vegetation fire and spread to a nearby home and shed. Damage was limited to a single residence and neighboring small shed; however, Con Fire says 10 homes along the block were threatened.
Firefighters reported the blaze contained at around 3 p.m. and asked people to avoid the area as extensive mopping was ongoing. Con Fire reminds residents that all fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County.
San Jose activates online tool to combat illegal fireworks
San Jose Mercury News
June 3, 2019
https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/06/03/san-jose-activates-online-tool-to-combat-illegal-fireworks/
by Mark Gomez
Early-morning commuters traveling along Highway 87 started the work week off with a bang Monday morning as they saw at least one round of fireworks light up the sky before sunrise.
Welcome to the start of illegal fireworks season in San Jose.
As if on cue, the San Jose Fire Department issued a press release Monday announcing the activation of the city’s online reporting tool for illegal fireworks, an effort that has proved to be mostly ineffective the past two years.
The online reporting tool <http://www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks> was activated Saturday and will remain available through July 8. Residents are asked to fill out the form with “accurate information regarding the illegal firework activity. Include as much information as possible. The more information reported, the more likely action will be taken.”
People can upload up to five separate photos or videos as evidence of illegal fireworks use.
“Safety is our top priority and we want to take all possible measures to prevent injuries and fires,” San Jose Fire Chief Robert Sapien Jr. said in a statement. “The public can help keep their communities safer by not using fireworks.”
San Jose is also offering 24-hour hotline at 408-535-5600 to assist residents that do not have internet access. Reports that have “sufficient information and evidence” will result in the city’s Code Enforcement Division to issue citations.
Penalties for illegal fireworks include:
The sale of fireworks may result in a fine up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on
quantity.
In 2017, San Jose was forced to rescind all of the 45 fines it had issued amid complaints from residents who said they’d been wrongly cited. The city also issued 161 warnings two years ago.
In 2018, San Jose required citizens to include proof that someone used illegal fireworks when filling out the online form. The online reporting tool asked for names and addresses and photo or video evidence. The city received more than 1,100 online reports of illicit fireworks activity between June 1 and July 8 but the Code Enforcement Division issued just four citations and 88 warnings <https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/08/23/just-a-fraction-of-illegal-fireworks-reports-resulted-in-a-citation-over-the-4th-of-july/>. The rest of the reports, according to a memo written by the fire department, did not provide enough information for the department to issue citations.
Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage, the fire department said in its press release.
The city is also promoting three sanctioned fireworks displays on July 4, including shows in downtown San Jose at Discovery Meadow, in South San Jose at Almaden Lake Park and at Excite Stadium following a San Jose Giants game.
June 3, 2019
https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/06/03/san-jose-activates-online-tool-to-combat-illegal-fireworks/
by Mark Gomez
Early-morning commuters traveling along Highway 87 started the work week off with a bang Monday morning as they saw at least one round of fireworks light up the sky before sunrise.
Welcome to the start of illegal fireworks season in San Jose.
As if on cue, the San Jose Fire Department issued a press release Monday announcing the activation of the city’s online reporting tool for illegal fireworks, an effort that has proved to be mostly ineffective the past two years.
The online reporting tool <http://www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks> was activated Saturday and will remain available through July 8. Residents are asked to fill out the form with “accurate information regarding the illegal firework activity. Include as much information as possible. The more information reported, the more likely action will be taken.”
People can upload up to five separate photos or videos as evidence of illegal fireworks use.
“Safety is our top priority and we want to take all possible measures to prevent injuries and fires,” San Jose Fire Chief Robert Sapien Jr. said in a statement. “The public can help keep their communities safer by not using fireworks.”
San Jose is also offering 24-hour hotline at 408-535-5600 to assist residents that do not have internet access. Reports that have “sufficient information and evidence” will result in the city’s Code Enforcement Division to issue citations.
Penalties for illegal fireworks include:
- $500 for a first violation
- $700 for a second violation (within 18 month period from date of previous violation)
- $1,000 for a third violation (within 18 month period from date of previous violation)
The sale of fireworks may result in a fine up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on
quantity.
In 2017, San Jose was forced to rescind all of the 45 fines it had issued amid complaints from residents who said they’d been wrongly cited. The city also issued 161 warnings two years ago.
In 2018, San Jose required citizens to include proof that someone used illegal fireworks when filling out the online form. The online reporting tool asked for names and addresses and photo or video evidence. The city received more than 1,100 online reports of illicit fireworks activity between June 1 and July 8 but the Code Enforcement Division issued just four citations and 88 warnings <https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/08/23/just-a-fraction-of-illegal-fireworks-reports-resulted-in-a-citation-over-the-4th-of-july/>. The rest of the reports, according to a memo written by the fire department, did not provide enough information for the department to issue citations.
Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage, the fire department said in its press release.
The city is also promoting three sanctioned fireworks displays on July 4, including shows in downtown San Jose at Discovery Meadow, in South San Jose at Almaden Lake Park and at Excite Stadium following a San Jose Giants game.
Addressing Fireworks in our Neighborhoods and Beaches
by Zach Friend
County Supervisor, 2nd District
Times Publishing Group
May 21, 2019
With Memorial Day and the unofficial start of summer the number of complaints for fireworks begins to increase. Over the last few years our office, the Sheriff’s Office and State Parks, have received numerous complaints about fireworks — from concerns about the noise to fire and environmental concerns. The issue was raised at a recent neighborhood association meeting I attended with concerns that they are becoming more common even outside of the summer.
The largest number of complaints come around July 4th with the majority of calls from the coastal areas of our district including Rio Del Mar, Seacliff and La Selva Beach. The exact location of the discharge is often difficult to pinpoint, as the sound reverberates throughout the coastal area, but there are some known hotspot locations on state beaches and some county beaches in the unincorporated area.
Over the last few years the Sheriff’s Office has tried different enforcement approaches while the County has done a significant educational (including paid advertising outreach) to address the issue. Some of this enforcement, specifically along the coast, has caused concerns about increased fireworks activity in the more rural areas. Others have believed that when the enforcement is most directed there is a decline in activity along the coast. While others have contacted my office to express concern about the usage of law enforcement resources for fireworks in general (believing this is a low priority issue).
The County’s position has been that since fireworks, even safe and sane fireworks are illegal in the unincorporated area; there should be enforcement on this issue. Realistically, there are significant barriers to effective enforcement: the difficulty in pinpointing the exact location of the discharge, the delay between the report and arrival of law enforcement (as people that are discharging them often leave the scene), call prioritization (if there are other active calls that officers are on then the won’t be able to respond immediately) and more. But the County is still committed to helping to reduce the issue.
Fireworks are sold legally in neighboring jurisdictions and often brought illegally into our community and fired off on the beaches, in the neighborhoods and even along the rail corridor and local parks. Over the last few years the County has increased the fines for fireworks (fireworks violations are subject to triple fines during July 4th, which means a citation can cost well over $1,000 after court costs are added on.)
Additionally, working with local community groups and the Sheriff’s Office the County adopted a set of policies and approaches that included: improved tools of enforcement, better education locally, and outreach to neighboring jurisdictions that sell fireworks. Specifically, the plan included:
Illegal fireworks activity will continue but the goal is that this approach has a positive impact on the environmental and other issues it causes.
County Supervisor, 2nd District
Times Publishing Group
May 21, 2019
With Memorial Day and the unofficial start of summer the number of complaints for fireworks begins to increase. Over the last few years our office, the Sheriff’s Office and State Parks, have received numerous complaints about fireworks — from concerns about the noise to fire and environmental concerns. The issue was raised at a recent neighborhood association meeting I attended with concerns that they are becoming more common even outside of the summer.
The largest number of complaints come around July 4th with the majority of calls from the coastal areas of our district including Rio Del Mar, Seacliff and La Selva Beach. The exact location of the discharge is often difficult to pinpoint, as the sound reverberates throughout the coastal area, but there are some known hotspot locations on state beaches and some county beaches in the unincorporated area.
Over the last few years the Sheriff’s Office has tried different enforcement approaches while the County has done a significant educational (including paid advertising outreach) to address the issue. Some of this enforcement, specifically along the coast, has caused concerns about increased fireworks activity in the more rural areas. Others have believed that when the enforcement is most directed there is a decline in activity along the coast. While others have contacted my office to express concern about the usage of law enforcement resources for fireworks in general (believing this is a low priority issue).
The County’s position has been that since fireworks, even safe and sane fireworks are illegal in the unincorporated area; there should be enforcement on this issue. Realistically, there are significant barriers to effective enforcement: the difficulty in pinpointing the exact location of the discharge, the delay between the report and arrival of law enforcement (as people that are discharging them often leave the scene), call prioritization (if there are other active calls that officers are on then the won’t be able to respond immediately) and more. But the County is still committed to helping to reduce the issue.
Fireworks are sold legally in neighboring jurisdictions and often brought illegally into our community and fired off on the beaches, in the neighborhoods and even along the rail corridor and local parks. Over the last few years the County has increased the fines for fireworks (fireworks violations are subject to triple fines during July 4th, which means a citation can cost well over $1,000 after court costs are added on.)
Additionally, working with local community groups and the Sheriff’s Office the County adopted a set of policies and approaches that included: improved tools of enforcement, better education locally, and outreach to neighboring jurisdictions that sell fireworks. Specifically, the plan included:
- Making triple fines for fireworks permanent on July 4th and other holidays (meaning possession of fireworks will cost you well over $1000 in fines and court costs)
- Visits to local high schools by the Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer for education to students about the dangers and enforcement actions
- Producing public service announcements and other media outreach to local and regional media outlets about enforcement plans and the danger of fireworks before the summer
- Expanding digital signage near hot spot neighborhoods about enforcement
- Working with 9-1-1 dispatchers regarding how these calls are handled and also for education to the caller about the best information to provide to ensure proper enforcement
- Working with vacation rental owners to educate them about visitors bringing illegal fireworks and also the consequences associated with it
- Increasing police patrols
- Sending letters to neighboring jurisdictions that sell fireworks encouraging them to partner with us on the issues their fireworks cause
- Outreach to State Parks for improved and increased enforcement on state beaches and parks during July 4th and other peak times.
Illegal fireworks activity will continue but the goal is that this approach has a positive impact on the environmental and other issues it causes.
Cracking down on illegal fireworks:
Santa Maria council expands enforcement options
Santa Maria council expands enforcement options
Santa Maria Times
May 7, 2019 Updated May 20, 2019
The Santa Maria City Council on Tuesday adopted an ordinance expanding the legal avenues officials can take to curb the use of illegal fireworks — an issue that has resulted in a large number of complaints from residents in recent years.
The new ordinance includes a “responsible social host” provision that allows property owners to be fined, eases requirements for third-party administrative citations and declares setting off illegal fireworks to be a public nuisance that could be punished with either a misdemeanor or administrative citation.
On Tuesday, the City Council adopted the ordinance with a unanimous vote.
The use of so-called "safe and sane” fireworks would continue to be allowed between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4.
Under the responsible host provision of the ordinance, a property owner could be cited for illegal fireworks used on their property as though they were the ones that lit them, Assistant City Attorney Jeffrey Patrick said.
The ordinance would not require the property owner to have prior knowledge of the fireworks unless it’s a landlord who is leasing the property and lives elsewhere. In those instances, a citation still could be issued if the property owner was warned about fireworks at that property within a one-year period.
The citation would carry a fine up to $1,000.
Councilwoman Etta Waterfield asked whether the fine could be raised, saying there needed to be a strong incentive against using illegal fireworks.
City Manager Jason Stilwell they would check if there was a legal limit to raising the fine and report back during the next council meeting.
Under the new ordinance, Santa Maria residents may assist with a third-party administrative citation if they witness the use of the illegal fireworks, have either a video or photo as documentary evidence and sign a complaint.
Previously, third-party citations could only be issued with two separate eyewitnesses to sign complaints.
Prior to the vote, Steve Baird, president of local veterans organization Band of Brothers, said there was a need to address the widespread use of illegal fireworks due to the effect it can have on those sensitive to noise or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Baird said he’d polled the roughly 140 members of his organization and that the consensus was that the use of illegal fireworks had gotten out of hand in the city.
The use of fireworks in the days up to and after the Fourth of July was particularly problematic, Baird said. “It not only impacts the veterans themselves, [it] goes on to affect their families, children.”
Band of Brothers was willing to serve as volunteers that would observe and report any use of fireworks, Baird said.
Mayor Alice Patino asked whether the city had considered the use of volunteers whiles putting the ordinance together.
Patrick said there were safety issues with having a city-organized volunteer group going out to confront people using illegal fireworks.
The amendments to the third-party citations would allow groups to go out and report any illegal fireworks, Patrick said, “but we’re not officially sanctioning it.”
May 7, 2019 Updated May 20, 2019
The Santa Maria City Council on Tuesday adopted an ordinance expanding the legal avenues officials can take to curb the use of illegal fireworks — an issue that has resulted in a large number of complaints from residents in recent years.
The new ordinance includes a “responsible social host” provision that allows property owners to be fined, eases requirements for third-party administrative citations and declares setting off illegal fireworks to be a public nuisance that could be punished with either a misdemeanor or administrative citation.
On Tuesday, the City Council adopted the ordinance with a unanimous vote.
The use of so-called "safe and sane” fireworks would continue to be allowed between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4.
Under the responsible host provision of the ordinance, a property owner could be cited for illegal fireworks used on their property as though they were the ones that lit them, Assistant City Attorney Jeffrey Patrick said.
The ordinance would not require the property owner to have prior knowledge of the fireworks unless it’s a landlord who is leasing the property and lives elsewhere. In those instances, a citation still could be issued if the property owner was warned about fireworks at that property within a one-year period.
The citation would carry a fine up to $1,000.
Councilwoman Etta Waterfield asked whether the fine could be raised, saying there needed to be a strong incentive against using illegal fireworks.
City Manager Jason Stilwell they would check if there was a legal limit to raising the fine and report back during the next council meeting.
Under the new ordinance, Santa Maria residents may assist with a third-party administrative citation if they witness the use of the illegal fireworks, have either a video or photo as documentary evidence and sign a complaint.
Previously, third-party citations could only be issued with two separate eyewitnesses to sign complaints.
Prior to the vote, Steve Baird, president of local veterans organization Band of Brothers, said there was a need to address the widespread use of illegal fireworks due to the effect it can have on those sensitive to noise or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Baird said he’d polled the roughly 140 members of his organization and that the consensus was that the use of illegal fireworks had gotten out of hand in the city.
The use of fireworks in the days up to and after the Fourth of July was particularly problematic, Baird said. “It not only impacts the veterans themselves, [it] goes on to affect their families, children.”
Band of Brothers was willing to serve as volunteers that would observe and report any use of fireworks, Baird said.
Mayor Alice Patino asked whether the city had considered the use of volunteers whiles putting the ordinance together.
Patrick said there were safety issues with having a city-organized volunteer group going out to confront people using illegal fireworks.
The amendments to the third-party citations would allow groups to go out and report any illegal fireworks, Patrick said, “but we’re not officially sanctioning it.”
California authorities intercept shipment of illegal fireworks
March 29, 2019
Modesto Police Department, CA
MPD Patrol Officers received information regarding two pallets of illegal fireworks that were being delivered to a residential address in Modesto. The shipment was from a Reno, Nevada fireworks distributor. The fireworks were aerial mortar type explosives, 55 boxes that weighed 1839lbs. Patrol was assisted by MPD’s Crime Reduction Team, Stanislaus County Bomb Squad and Modesto Fire Department. The receiver of the shipment has been arrested on several charges.
Modesto Police Department, CA
MPD Patrol Officers received information regarding two pallets of illegal fireworks that were being delivered to a residential address in Modesto. The shipment was from a Reno, Nevada fireworks distributor. The fireworks were aerial mortar type explosives, 55 boxes that weighed 1839lbs. Patrol was assisted by MPD’s Crime Reduction Team, Stanislaus County Bomb Squad and Modesto Fire Department. The receiver of the shipment has been arrested on several charges.
Fireworks banned on the Galapagos to protect wildlife
BBC News
December 29, 2018
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-46706515
"Conservationists say that animals suffered from elevated heart rates, trembling and anxiety after pyrotechnic events."
December 29, 2018
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-46706515
"Conservationists say that animals suffered from elevated heart rates, trembling and anxiety after pyrotechnic events."
Santa Marians call for increased enforcement of illegal fireworks
Santa Maria Times
November 13, 2018
Citing the noise generated, impact on pets and those with post-traumatic stress disorder, Santa Maria residents advocated for more strict fireworks laws and tougher punishments for offenders during a community meeting to discuss the state of legal and illegal fireworks in the city.
Held at the Minami Community Center, the meeting — which drew around 35 people — was called to provide the City Council with public input as city officials weigh whether or not to change the local fireworks ordinance.
Click HERE to read more.
November 13, 2018
Citing the noise generated, impact on pets and those with post-traumatic stress disorder, Santa Maria residents advocated for more strict fireworks laws and tougher punishments for offenders during a community meeting to discuss the state of legal and illegal fireworks in the city.
Held at the Minami Community Center, the meeting — which drew around 35 people — was called to provide the City Council with public input as city officials weigh whether or not to change the local fireworks ordinance.
Click HERE to read more.
Santa Maria residents call for fireworks ban during City Council meeting
Santa Maria Times
July 17, 2018
https://santamariatimes.com/news/local/santa-maria-residents-call-for-fireworks-ban-during-city-council/article_f88f89b3-ef2b-5bad-9116-1534c776d50c.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook
Expressing concern at the widespread use of illegal fireworks in the days leading up to and through the Fourth of July, 11 community members asked the Santa Maria City Council on Tuesday to take a harder line on punishing those violating the city's fireworks ordinance.
Santa Maria resident Wanda McDonald was one of those who called for the council to ban all fireworks within city limits.
“The public service announcements, the street signs, the lawn signs — none of it is working,” McDonald said. “I don’t know what the solution is but I do know, from the research I’ve done, it’s much easier to catch those breaking the law when a community doesn’t allow any fireworks.”
Regarding illegal fireworks, city officials spent $5,100 on the city’s fireworks education initiatives this year, which included messaging on social media, local radio stations, utility bills, newspaper ads and posters aboard buses, said City Manager Jason Stilwell. The city also set up a fireworks hotline to take complaints from residents about illegal fireworks use.
While the city allowed the sale of “safe and sane” fireworks — those that do not explode or fly — from 24 booths this year, the use of fireworks is only allowed during a 12-hour period on July 4. The use of fireworks at any other time can result in a $1,000 fine.
Santa Maria resident Mary Clark felt the city was not doing enough to enforce laws governing illegal fireworks.
“I’m tired of this every year,” Clark said. “I know it’s hard, Chief — trust me, we get that. But we did what you asked — we gave house numbers, exact locations, in some cases we gave names and in some cases we took video. And it still went on because there was no accountability for these people.
“I wish you would remember this when you talk about what you’ve done and the money you’ve spent, which we appreciate,” Clark said. “But you can save your money next year because nobody's listening.”
Stilwell told the residents that the city was working with a statewide coalition to address illegal fireworks and that city staff would follow up with each of them.
Councilwoman Etta Waterfield agreed that illegal fireworks was an issue and said she had seen illegal fireworks going off from Orcutt all the way to Nipomo.
“It’s in both counties, it’s everywhere,” Waterfield said.
Police Chief Phil Hansen said the department received over 450 calls on July 4, including 338 calls for service. There was one person arrested for fireworks and one citation issued, Hansen said.
“I’ll speak just for a moment about enforcement — it’s very troubling to me,” Hansen said. “I want to provide a little perspective: on any given night, there are six to eight officers on patrol that’s actually handling calls out there in a city of over 110,000 people. Fourth of July was no exception — we had eight patrol officers on shift. The priorities play into that. Fireworks calls — although we take them seriously, they’re going to be a lower priority than many of the other calls we receive.”
Hansen added that fireworks citations are difficult because the officer has to witness the violation. “That’s a difficult thing,” he said. “They’re sporadic when they go — a lot of times by the time we get there, it’s either over or not happening.”
While the city passed laws in 2015 allowing third-party citations, which allow an eyewitness to issue administrative citations, Hansen said they are rarely used.
“That requires somebody to sign a complaint against their neighbor — very few people are willing to do that,” Hansen said.
Fire Chief Leonard Champion said the department responded on July 4 to 30 incidents — an amount slightly higher than the daily average. Of the incidents, 20 were for emergency medical services, four were for dumpster fires, two for broken hydrants, one airport standby, a vehicle accident and a mutual aid call.
“We also did receive word that there was a minor injury that came from somebody that walked into Marian hospital related to fireworks,” Champion said.
July 17, 2018
https://santamariatimes.com/news/local/santa-maria-residents-call-for-fireworks-ban-during-city-council/article_f88f89b3-ef2b-5bad-9116-1534c776d50c.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook
Expressing concern at the widespread use of illegal fireworks in the days leading up to and through the Fourth of July, 11 community members asked the Santa Maria City Council on Tuesday to take a harder line on punishing those violating the city's fireworks ordinance.
Santa Maria resident Wanda McDonald was one of those who called for the council to ban all fireworks within city limits.
“The public service announcements, the street signs, the lawn signs — none of it is working,” McDonald said. “I don’t know what the solution is but I do know, from the research I’ve done, it’s much easier to catch those breaking the law when a community doesn’t allow any fireworks.”
Regarding illegal fireworks, city officials spent $5,100 on the city’s fireworks education initiatives this year, which included messaging on social media, local radio stations, utility bills, newspaper ads and posters aboard buses, said City Manager Jason Stilwell. The city also set up a fireworks hotline to take complaints from residents about illegal fireworks use.
While the city allowed the sale of “safe and sane” fireworks — those that do not explode or fly — from 24 booths this year, the use of fireworks is only allowed during a 12-hour period on July 4. The use of fireworks at any other time can result in a $1,000 fine.
Santa Maria resident Mary Clark felt the city was not doing enough to enforce laws governing illegal fireworks.
“I’m tired of this every year,” Clark said. “I know it’s hard, Chief — trust me, we get that. But we did what you asked — we gave house numbers, exact locations, in some cases we gave names and in some cases we took video. And it still went on because there was no accountability for these people.
“I wish you would remember this when you talk about what you’ve done and the money you’ve spent, which we appreciate,” Clark said. “But you can save your money next year because nobody's listening.”
Stilwell told the residents that the city was working with a statewide coalition to address illegal fireworks and that city staff would follow up with each of them.
Councilwoman Etta Waterfield agreed that illegal fireworks was an issue and said she had seen illegal fireworks going off from Orcutt all the way to Nipomo.
“It’s in both counties, it’s everywhere,” Waterfield said.
Police Chief Phil Hansen said the department received over 450 calls on July 4, including 338 calls for service. There was one person arrested for fireworks and one citation issued, Hansen said.
“I’ll speak just for a moment about enforcement — it’s very troubling to me,” Hansen said. “I want to provide a little perspective: on any given night, there are six to eight officers on patrol that’s actually handling calls out there in a city of over 110,000 people. Fourth of July was no exception — we had eight patrol officers on shift. The priorities play into that. Fireworks calls — although we take them seriously, they’re going to be a lower priority than many of the other calls we receive.”
Hansen added that fireworks citations are difficult because the officer has to witness the violation. “That’s a difficult thing,” he said. “They’re sporadic when they go — a lot of times by the time we get there, it’s either over or not happening.”
While the city passed laws in 2015 allowing third-party citations, which allow an eyewitness to issue administrative citations, Hansen said they are rarely used.
“That requires somebody to sign a complaint against their neighbor — very few people are willing to do that,” Hansen said.
Fire Chief Leonard Champion said the department responded on July 4 to 30 incidents — an amount slightly higher than the daily average. Of the incidents, 20 were for emergency medical services, four were for dumpster fires, two for broken hydrants, one airport standby, a vehicle accident and a mutual aid call.
“We also did receive word that there was a minor injury that came from somebody that walked into Marian hospital related to fireworks,” Champion said.
Ask Council for fireworks enforcement
Residents in Santa Maria, California experience what would most likely happen if Santa Cruz allowed safe and sane fireworks on July 4th. Here is a letter-to-the-editor of the Santa Maria Times, from Wanda McDonald of Citizens for "Zero Tolerance" of Illegal Fireworks:
July 17, 2018
https://santamariatimes.com/opinion/letters/letters-to-the-editor-exercising-free-speech-ask-council-for/article_3a18f538-28c5-5c5e-b1a3-cffd6c3726d0.html
I would like to invite all of you in the community, who are sick and tired of illegal fireworks going off nightly, to attend the City Council meeting tonight, Tuesday, July 17, at 5:30 p.m., at City Hall. It is time to speak up and let our city leaders know that this blatant disregard for Santa Maria’s zero tolerance policy on the use of illegal fireworks needs to be addressed and solutions found.
The 4th of July this year was the worst it has ever been, and I believe it’s in large part due to nothing being done to those who continue to break this law the other 364 days too. I know it is difficult to respond to every call received but surely it would be possible to issue at least some citations. It is a joke among those breaking the law when you mention it because they know it is low priority when the call is received.
Fireworks affect those with PTSD, autism, dementia, asthma and other breathing issues. They are responsible for the suffering of many animals who shake or run in terror from the noise, some losing their lives due to the fear it causes. How terrible it is for so many members of our community to put up with this night after night after night.
So please, make your voices heard, let’s work to create change, and attend tonight's meeting.
Residents in Santa Maria, California experience what would most likely happen if Santa Cruz allowed safe and sane fireworks on July 4th. Here is a letter-to-the-editor of the Santa Maria Times, from Wanda McDonald of Citizens for "Zero Tolerance" of Illegal Fireworks:
July 17, 2018
https://santamariatimes.com/opinion/letters/letters-to-the-editor-exercising-free-speech-ask-council-for/article_3a18f538-28c5-5c5e-b1a3-cffd6c3726d0.html
I would like to invite all of you in the community, who are sick and tired of illegal fireworks going off nightly, to attend the City Council meeting tonight, Tuesday, July 17, at 5:30 p.m., at City Hall. It is time to speak up and let our city leaders know that this blatant disregard for Santa Maria’s zero tolerance policy on the use of illegal fireworks needs to be addressed and solutions found.
The 4th of July this year was the worst it has ever been, and I believe it’s in large part due to nothing being done to those who continue to break this law the other 364 days too. I know it is difficult to respond to every call received but surely it would be possible to issue at least some citations. It is a joke among those breaking the law when you mention it because they know it is low priority when the call is received.
Fireworks affect those with PTSD, autism, dementia, asthma and other breathing issues. They are responsible for the suffering of many animals who shake or run in terror from the noise, some losing their lives due to the fear it causes. How terrible it is for so many members of our community to put up with this night after night after night.
So please, make your voices heard, let’s work to create change, and attend tonight's meeting.
Man setting off holiday fireworks sparked fire
The Associated Press
July 6, 2018
https://www.apnews.com/405f4ce6359c466daec4bcb2edc8c9a1/Authorities:-Man-setting-off-holiday-fireworks-sparked-fire
VINELAND, N.J. (AP) — Authorities say fireworks set off by a resident in a New Jersey neighborhood on the Fourth of July sparked a fire that destroyed 14 junk vehicles at one site and 2 acres of woods.
Vineland police say 55-year-old city resident Richard Caulford is charged with the use of dangerous fireworks and arson by recklessly setting them off near a structure that could be damaged or destroyed. Authorities also seized about 60 explosive canister shell type-fireworks and related paraphernalia at his home.
The fire was reported around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday. Authorities say the fireworks sparked a lawn fire at the site where the vehicles were being kept, and the fire soon consumed them.
No injuries were reported in the blaze.
It wasn't known Friday if Caulford has retained an attorney.
July 6, 2018
https://www.apnews.com/405f4ce6359c466daec4bcb2edc8c9a1/Authorities:-Man-setting-off-holiday-fireworks-sparked-fire
VINELAND, N.J. (AP) — Authorities say fireworks set off by a resident in a New Jersey neighborhood on the Fourth of July sparked a fire that destroyed 14 junk vehicles at one site and 2 acres of woods.
Vineland police say 55-year-old city resident Richard Caulford is charged with the use of dangerous fireworks and arson by recklessly setting them off near a structure that could be damaged or destroyed. Authorities also seized about 60 explosive canister shell type-fireworks and related paraphernalia at his home.
The fire was reported around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday. Authorities say the fireworks sparked a lawn fire at the site where the vehicles were being kept, and the fire soon consumed them.
No injuries were reported in the blaze.
It wasn't known Friday if Caulford has retained an attorney.
Fireworks explosions kill in Florida, South Carolina
The Associated Press
July 6, 2018
https://www.apnews.com/478fb494b75448979bf27dd8b6ca83eb/Police:-Fireworks-explosions-kill-in-Florida,-South-Carolina
CHERAW, S.C. (AP) — A Florida teenager has died in a fireworks explosion, while several other people have blown off their fingers or injured their eyes.
A Tampa police statement Friday says 16-year-old Joseph King was holding a firing tube and trying to launch a mortar when it exploded late Thursday night. He died early Friday morning at Tampa General Hospital of injuries to his chest and hand.
In Cheraw, South Carolina, police said 24-year-old M.C. Gallion III died when a fireworks tube he was holding exploded in his hands and injured his chest Wednesday night.
Other fireworks injuries are being reported around the nation after the Fourth of July holiday.
In Broward County, a man's hand was partially amputated when the firework he was holding exploded.
In Pompano Beach, one man who may have been holding an M80 explosive blew off his fingers and suffered an eye injury, while another man who lit the firework suffered burns to his hands. And in Maryland, a man severely injured both hands while trying to launch a mortar during an outdoor party.
July 6, 2018
https://www.apnews.com/478fb494b75448979bf27dd8b6ca83eb/Police:-Fireworks-explosions-kill-in-Florida,-South-Carolina
CHERAW, S.C. (AP) — A Florida teenager has died in a fireworks explosion, while several other people have blown off their fingers or injured their eyes.
A Tampa police statement Friday says 16-year-old Joseph King was holding a firing tube and trying to launch a mortar when it exploded late Thursday night. He died early Friday morning at Tampa General Hospital of injuries to his chest and hand.
In Cheraw, South Carolina, police said 24-year-old M.C. Gallion III died when a fireworks tube he was holding exploded in his hands and injured his chest Wednesday night.
Other fireworks injuries are being reported around the nation after the Fourth of July holiday.
In Broward County, a man's hand was partially amputated when the firework he was holding exploded.
In Pompano Beach, one man who may have been holding an M80 explosive blew off his fingers and suffered an eye injury, while another man who lit the firework suffered burns to his hands. And in Maryland, a man severely injured both hands while trying to launch a mortar during an outdoor party.
Hundreds of 911 calls made for Fourth of July fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel
July 5, 2018
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/general-news/20180705/hundreds-of-911-calls-made-for-fourth-of-july-fireworks
More than 700 calls for service Wednesday night and Thursday morning sent authorities in Santa Cruz and the unincorporated Santa Cruz County to scenes of illegal Independence Day revelry.
In Santa Cruz, police responding to 435 calls for service from midnight Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday and 74 of the calls were related to fireworks, police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said. No significant disturbances were reported, she said.
There were 15 tripled fines issued — most related to alcohol or fireworks — were levied by Santa Cruz police, Blaschke said.
There were 27 citations issued for infractions, most of which stemmed from people having open containers of alcohol, she said.
In addition, eight misdemeanors were sought for cases of being drunk in public and other crimes, Blaschke said.
The Sheriff’s Office responded to 282 calls for service, of which nearly half — 130 calls — involved fireworks, Sgt. Brian Cleveland said.
Deputies made six arrests involving drugs, aggravated assaults or arrest warrants, Cleveland said.
Deputies issued 82 citations, of which 28 were alcohol-related and 15 were fireworks-related, Cleveland said.
There were 16 people booked at Santa Cruz County Jail, he said.
“Deputies confiscated hundreds of illegal fireworks,” Cleveland said.
July 5, 2018
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/general-news/20180705/hundreds-of-911-calls-made-for-fourth-of-july-fireworks
More than 700 calls for service Wednesday night and Thursday morning sent authorities in Santa Cruz and the unincorporated Santa Cruz County to scenes of illegal Independence Day revelry.
In Santa Cruz, police responding to 435 calls for service from midnight Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday and 74 of the calls were related to fireworks, police spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said. No significant disturbances were reported, she said.
There were 15 tripled fines issued — most related to alcohol or fireworks — were levied by Santa Cruz police, Blaschke said.
There were 27 citations issued for infractions, most of which stemmed from people having open containers of alcohol, she said.
In addition, eight misdemeanors were sought for cases of being drunk in public and other crimes, Blaschke said.
The Sheriff’s Office responded to 282 calls for service, of which nearly half — 130 calls — involved fireworks, Sgt. Brian Cleveland said.
Deputies made six arrests involving drugs, aggravated assaults or arrest warrants, Cleveland said.
Deputies issued 82 citations, of which 28 were alcohol-related and 15 were fireworks-related, Cleveland said.
There were 16 people booked at Santa Cruz County Jail, he said.
“Deputies confiscated hundreds of illegal fireworks,” Cleveland said.
The Fourth of July brings some of the year's worst air pollution
LA Times
July 3, 2018
Americans’ fervor for Fourth of July fireworks has some unfortunate side effects.
There’s a jump in fires, gruesome injuries and runaway pets spooked by the noise.
But there’s also a more widespread hazard from the yearly outburst of pyrotechnics: It spikes air pollution so sharply it becomes dangerous for everyone to breathe.
Independence Day and July 5 consistently have some of the worst air quality of the year. With so many fireworks going off at once, levels of fine-particle pollution — a stew of tiny, lung-damaging specks of toxic soot, smoke and ash known as PM2.5 — surge several times higher than federal health standards across Southern California, air monitoring data show.
Click HERE to read more.
July 3, 2018
Americans’ fervor for Fourth of July fireworks has some unfortunate side effects.
There’s a jump in fires, gruesome injuries and runaway pets spooked by the noise.
But there’s also a more widespread hazard from the yearly outburst of pyrotechnics: It spikes air pollution so sharply it becomes dangerous for everyone to breathe.
Independence Day and July 5 consistently have some of the worst air quality of the year. With so many fireworks going off at once, levels of fine-particle pollution — a stew of tiny, lung-damaging specks of toxic soot, smoke and ash known as PM2.5 — surge several times higher than federal health standards across Southern California, air monitoring data show.
Click HERE to read more.
Firework Blamed For Igniting Fire at Anderson Recreation Center in Lompoc
By Janene Scully
Noozhawk
June 28, 2018
A firework sparked a blaze that damaged the exterior of Lompoc's Anderson Recreation Center late Wednesday night.
At 9:14 p.m. personnel from the Lompoc and Santa Barbara County fire departments responded to a reporter of bushes on fire against the building at 125 W. Walnut Ave.
"Investigators were working to determine if the pyrotechnics were the safe and sane version or illegal fireworks, but initially suspected it might have involved a safe and sane item..."
Click HERE to read more.
Noozhawk
June 28, 2018
A firework sparked a blaze that damaged the exterior of Lompoc's Anderson Recreation Center late Wednesday night.
At 9:14 p.m. personnel from the Lompoc and Santa Barbara County fire departments responded to a reporter of bushes on fire against the building at 125 W. Walnut Ave.
"Investigators were working to determine if the pyrotechnics were the safe and sane version or illegal fireworks, but initially suspected it might have involved a safe and sane item..."
Click HERE to read more.
As July 4 nears, here are 5 things to know about fireworks in Salinas
The Californian
June 22, 2018
Joe Szydlowski,
The Fourth of July is approaching and with it, the booms and crackles of fireworks in Salinas.
But as certain fireworks sales temporarily became legal in Salinas on Friday, more explosive ones remain illegal and can lead to fines in the tens of thousands of dollars, said Sam Klemek, fire marshal with the Salinas Fire Department.
What's legal — and illegal
In Salinas, fireworks can be sold only at licensed stalls between Friday and July 5, Klemek said.
At 10 p.m. on July 5, their use becomes illegal as well, he said.
All fireworks' packaging must include the "safe and sane" designation from the state fire marshal's office, Klemek said.
"It has to be printed on it," he said. "Not stickers, not stamped. We see a lot of fireworks with counterfeit stamps and stickers."
In addition, removing the firework's commercial packaging with that designation makes the firework illegal to have, he said.
After buying the safe-and-sane fireworks, it's illegal to use them after 10 p.m., Klemek said. Also, they can't be used in public areas.
"It has to be done on your property," he said.
But those safe-and-sane fireworks can still be illegal, depending on how they're used, he said.
"You can't throw it, fling it, shoot it out of a slingshot, twist the fuses (together)," he said. "You can't cut them open and pour (the contents) into your own concoction."
Essentially, using a "safe-and-sane" firework in a way that doesn't follow the package instructions is illegal, he said.
What if I break the rules?
Before Independence Day, Salinas firefighters, code enforcement and police will be collaborating to fight illegal fireworks.
Vendors are monitored and inspected, including sting operations, Klemek said.
As for the fireworks aficionados, they could face several consequences, he said.
Possession of an illicit firework, including an originally "safe-and-sane" firework that's been illegally modified, can be considered a misdemeanor with up to $50,000 in fines, he said.
A variety of charges can be applied, such as using an illegal firework vs. simply possessing one, depending on the situation, he said.
Even if firefighters and police arrive too late to see a firework go off, the city can levy a $1,250 administrative fine if they get three corroborating reports about a single incident, he said.
"If we get three corroborating reports... that's enough to cite," he said.
Still, he acknowledged some people come in and voluntarily pay the fine in advance. So, come July 4, and likely beforehand, some people will disregard the rules.
To report illegal fireworks, call or text (831) 296-3939, visit salinasfireworks.com or download the Salinas Connect app on your smartphone.
Give as much and as specific information as possible, such as the exact location rather than a street name or neighborhood.
For more information on Salinas' fireworks laws, visit www.salinasfireworks.com. They can also be called or texted at (831) 296-3939.
Read or Share this story: https://www.thecalifornian.com/story/news/2018/06/22/july-4-nears-here-5-things-know-fireworks-salinas/722789002/
June 22, 2018
Joe Szydlowski,
The Fourth of July is approaching and with it, the booms and crackles of fireworks in Salinas.
But as certain fireworks sales temporarily became legal in Salinas on Friday, more explosive ones remain illegal and can lead to fines in the tens of thousands of dollars, said Sam Klemek, fire marshal with the Salinas Fire Department.
What's legal — and illegal
In Salinas, fireworks can be sold only at licensed stalls between Friday and July 5, Klemek said.
At 10 p.m. on July 5, their use becomes illegal as well, he said.
All fireworks' packaging must include the "safe and sane" designation from the state fire marshal's office, Klemek said.
"It has to be printed on it," he said. "Not stickers, not stamped. We see a lot of fireworks with counterfeit stamps and stickers."
In addition, removing the firework's commercial packaging with that designation makes the firework illegal to have, he said.
After buying the safe-and-sane fireworks, it's illegal to use them after 10 p.m., Klemek said. Also, they can't be used in public areas.
"It has to be done on your property," he said.
But those safe-and-sane fireworks can still be illegal, depending on how they're used, he said.
"You can't throw it, fling it, shoot it out of a slingshot, twist the fuses (together)," he said. "You can't cut them open and pour (the contents) into your own concoction."
Essentially, using a "safe-and-sane" firework in a way that doesn't follow the package instructions is illegal, he said.
What if I break the rules?
Before Independence Day, Salinas firefighters, code enforcement and police will be collaborating to fight illegal fireworks.
Vendors are monitored and inspected, including sting operations, Klemek said.
As for the fireworks aficionados, they could face several consequences, he said.
Possession of an illicit firework, including an originally "safe-and-sane" firework that's been illegally modified, can be considered a misdemeanor with up to $50,000 in fines, he said.
A variety of charges can be applied, such as using an illegal firework vs. simply possessing one, depending on the situation, he said.
Even if firefighters and police arrive too late to see a firework go off, the city can levy a $1,250 administrative fine if they get three corroborating reports about a single incident, he said.
"If we get three corroborating reports... that's enough to cite," he said.
Still, he acknowledged some people come in and voluntarily pay the fine in advance. So, come July 4, and likely beforehand, some people will disregard the rules.
To report illegal fireworks, call or text (831) 296-3939, visit salinasfireworks.com or download the Salinas Connect app on your smartphone.
Give as much and as specific information as possible, such as the exact location rather than a street name or neighborhood.
For more information on Salinas' fireworks laws, visit www.salinasfireworks.com. They can also be called or texted at (831) 296-3939.
Read or Share this story: https://www.thecalifornian.com/story/news/2018/06/22/july-4-nears-here-5-things-know-fireworks-salinas/722789002/
Nearly 50,000 pounds of illegal fireworks seized in Cal Fire bust
By Molly Sullivan
June 07, 2018
http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article212736374.html
Almost 50,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized and seven people arrested over the last two weeks following a years-long investigation into an illegal fireworks ring operating throughout the state, Cal Fire announced Thursday.
The seizure, which is one of the largest in Cal Fire history, is the result of an investigation spanning three years and involving 80 investigators who performed "significant surveillance," said Shane Cunningham, Cal Fire's chief of law enforcement.
At a news conference on the steps of the Capitol, Cunningham said the investigation identified suspects who had been running an illegal fireworks ring for at least 30 years, importing and selling aerial fireworks from Nevada and Montana.
The illegal fireworks include Roman candles, sky rockets, bottle rockets and firecrackers, he said.
Law enforcement served 10 search warrants and seized fireworks in Copperopolis, Modesto, Salida, Hayward Walnut Creek and Oakland, Cal Fire said.
Officers also seized $115,000, a load of illegal fireworks ready to be transported, and a variety of computers, cellphones and firearms. In Oakland, officers found an explosive device, Cal Fire said.
The suspects were arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor and felony charges, Cunningham said.
The suspects are Jack Schroll and Tonya Adele Schroll, Michael Solorio, Larry Lista, Donald Cerasi, Leon Cerasi and Maria San.
They have been booked into the Calaveras County jail.
Cal Fire is holding the stockpile of illegal fireworks until they can be disposed of.
The disposal of illegal fireworks is expensive because they are deemed hazardous waste by the state and have to be transported out of state so a hazardous waste facility can dispose of them, said State Fire Marshal Dennis Mathisen.
Gov. Jerry Brown proposed to increase funding to stop the use of illegal fireworks in his May budget revision, and Cal Fire is working with the Legislature to get more funding for the disposal of illegal fireworks.
Cal Fire's announcement comes just weeks before Independence Day and the sale of "safe and sane" fireworks in some parts of the state, such as fountains, sparklers and noisemakers.
On July Fourth, in a typical year, fireworks account for two out of every five reported fires in the U.S., more than any other cause, Cal Fire said in a press release Thursday.
"On average each year, fireworks in California start 18,500 fires. These fires, on average, cause three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and $43 million in direct property damage," Cal Fire said.
Following the worst wildfire epidemic in the state's history, "this state can't afford this kind of ordnance in our streets," said state Sen. Henry Stern, calling illegal fireworks "weapons of wildfire."
Molly Sullivan: 916-321-1176, @SullivanMollyM
June 07, 2018
http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article212736374.html
Almost 50,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized and seven people arrested over the last two weeks following a years-long investigation into an illegal fireworks ring operating throughout the state, Cal Fire announced Thursday.
The seizure, which is one of the largest in Cal Fire history, is the result of an investigation spanning three years and involving 80 investigators who performed "significant surveillance," said Shane Cunningham, Cal Fire's chief of law enforcement.
At a news conference on the steps of the Capitol, Cunningham said the investigation identified suspects who had been running an illegal fireworks ring for at least 30 years, importing and selling aerial fireworks from Nevada and Montana.
The illegal fireworks include Roman candles, sky rockets, bottle rockets and firecrackers, he said.
Law enforcement served 10 search warrants and seized fireworks in Copperopolis, Modesto, Salida, Hayward Walnut Creek and Oakland, Cal Fire said.
Officers also seized $115,000, a load of illegal fireworks ready to be transported, and a variety of computers, cellphones and firearms. In Oakland, officers found an explosive device, Cal Fire said.
The suspects were arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor and felony charges, Cunningham said.
The suspects are Jack Schroll and Tonya Adele Schroll, Michael Solorio, Larry Lista, Donald Cerasi, Leon Cerasi and Maria San.
They have been booked into the Calaveras County jail.
Cal Fire is holding the stockpile of illegal fireworks until they can be disposed of.
The disposal of illegal fireworks is expensive because they are deemed hazardous waste by the state and have to be transported out of state so a hazardous waste facility can dispose of them, said State Fire Marshal Dennis Mathisen.
Gov. Jerry Brown proposed to increase funding to stop the use of illegal fireworks in his May budget revision, and Cal Fire is working with the Legislature to get more funding for the disposal of illegal fireworks.
Cal Fire's announcement comes just weeks before Independence Day and the sale of "safe and sane" fireworks in some parts of the state, such as fountains, sparklers and noisemakers.
On July Fourth, in a typical year, fireworks account for two out of every five reported fires in the U.S., more than any other cause, Cal Fire said in a press release Thursday.
"On average each year, fireworks in California start 18,500 fires. These fires, on average, cause three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and $43 million in direct property damage," Cal Fire said.
Following the worst wildfire epidemic in the state's history, "this state can't afford this kind of ordnance in our streets," said state Sen. Henry Stern, calling illegal fireworks "weapons of wildfire."
Molly Sullivan: 916-321-1176, @SullivanMollyM
Thousands flee fireworks explosion at Australia beach
BBC News
January 1, 2018
Two people were injured when a barge carrying a New Year fireworks display caught fire at an Australian beach.
A few minutes into the show at Terrigal Beach in New South Wales, an apparent malfunction caused fireworks to go off at random, some towards the beach.
Thousands of people on the beach had to be moved to safety and police sealed off the area.
Two pyrotechnicians jumped off the boat to get ashore and were later treated by paramedics for minor injuries.
Click HERE to read more and see the video.
January 1, 2018
Two people were injured when a barge carrying a New Year fireworks display caught fire at an Australian beach.
A few minutes into the show at Terrigal Beach in New South Wales, an apparent malfunction caused fireworks to go off at random, some towards the beach.
Thousands of people on the beach had to be moved to safety and police sealed off the area.
Two pyrotechnicians jumped off the boat to get ashore and were later treated by paramedics for minor injuries.
Click HERE to read more and see the video.
Police do not respond to ‘merrymaking fireworks’
Santa Cruz Sentinel
12/05/17
This last Saturday night the Seabright neighborhood was the victim of large-scale dangerous fireworks, from early evening until past midnight, it was a fireworks free for all. Damage was a blown up mailbox and a broken window. Where were the police? Nonresponsive. I called over a dozen times with no police response. After demanding a sergeant call me, a arrogant sergeant called at near midnight saying “we don’t respond to calls concerning sparklers or harmless merrymaking fireworks.” The honest response should have been, “sometimes we choose to just not respond.” Today a neighbor called about a car with two people parked on 4th Avenue while injecting heroin and vomiting in the street for four hours with no response from the police. — Ron Chinitz, Santa Cruz
12/05/17
This last Saturday night the Seabright neighborhood was the victim of large-scale dangerous fireworks, from early evening until past midnight, it was a fireworks free for all. Damage was a blown up mailbox and a broken window. Where were the police? Nonresponsive. I called over a dozen times with no police response. After demanding a sergeant call me, a arrogant sergeant called at near midnight saying “we don’t respond to calls concerning sparklers or harmless merrymaking fireworks.” The honest response should have been, “sometimes we choose to just not respond.” Today a neighbor called about a car with two people parked on 4th Avenue while injecting heroin and vomiting in the street for four hours with no response from the police. — Ron Chinitz, Santa Cruz
Fireworks can cause terror in veterans with PTSD
Santa Cruz Sentinel
November 12, 2017
I read, with sadness and horror, Marion Morris’s letter regarding the dog, Buddy, who, terrified beyond understanding, ran in panic into traffic and got killed. His terror and death were due to the violent cacophony of someone’s idea of entertainment. Please take a moment and imagine what Buddy experienced before and during his violent death. Then imagine veterans of war, who experienced something similar while serving in war. Many thankfully survived combat and returned to the sanctity of home only to be subjected to nightmarish memories of explosions and death instigated by the “entertainment” of fireworks. Buddy likely did not suffer from PTSD, but many veterans do. So not only did this celebratory event cause terror in innumerable animals in the area, both domestic and wild, but likely caused many veterans to shake, involuntarily reliving nightmares they so fervently seek to forget. What is the solution? Let’s open up this conversation.
— Wendy Smith, Live Oak
November 12, 2017
I read, with sadness and horror, Marion Morris’s letter regarding the dog, Buddy, who, terrified beyond understanding, ran in panic into traffic and got killed. His terror and death were due to the violent cacophony of someone’s idea of entertainment. Please take a moment and imagine what Buddy experienced before and during his violent death. Then imagine veterans of war, who experienced something similar while serving in war. Many thankfully survived combat and returned to the sanctity of home only to be subjected to nightmarish memories of explosions and death instigated by the “entertainment” of fireworks. Buddy likely did not suffer from PTSD, but many veterans do. So not only did this celebratory event cause terror in innumerable animals in the area, both domestic and wild, but likely caused many veterans to shake, involuntarily reliving nightmares they so fervently seek to forget. What is the solution? Let’s open up this conversation.
— Wendy Smith, Live Oak
Fireworks not welcomed by everyone in county
Santa Cruz Sentinel
November 11, 2017
Unlike Mr. Bottorff and others who may be thrilled by the fireworks that Marc Monte brings, I am not. Warnings go out to local residents to take note of the event in order to keep their pets safe. There is always at least one casualty and this year it was Buddy, a young dog who lived in Live Oak. In a brief moment, he bolted from his owners and fled in terror to escape the explosions; he was hit and killed by a car. This is not the only dog that has lost its life in this fashion and there are countless other animals who are routinely plagued by this activity. We already have a huge illegal fireworks problem here in Santa Cruz. Why encourage it by having these events that terrorize not only our pets but our diverse marine wildlife? Monterey Bay is supposed to be a Wildlife Sanctuary. Our county administrators should recognize that these events make a mockery of that title.
— Marion Morris, Santa Cruz
November 11, 2017
Unlike Mr. Bottorff and others who may be thrilled by the fireworks that Marc Monte brings, I am not. Warnings go out to local residents to take note of the event in order to keep their pets safe. There is always at least one casualty and this year it was Buddy, a young dog who lived in Live Oak. In a brief moment, he bolted from his owners and fled in terror to escape the explosions; he was hit and killed by a car. This is not the only dog that has lost its life in this fashion and there are countless other animals who are routinely plagued by this activity. We already have a huge illegal fireworks problem here in Santa Cruz. Why encourage it by having these events that terrorize not only our pets but our diverse marine wildlife? Monterey Bay is supposed to be a Wildlife Sanctuary. Our county administrators should recognize that these events make a mockery of that title.
— Marion Morris, Santa Cruz
Fireworks display in Amesbury cancelled after 14 hurt
November 5, 2017
BBC
Fourteen people were injured at a bonfire event when fireworks malfunctioned and shot into the crowd.
The display at the Antrobus Hotel in Amesbury, Wiltshire, on Saturday night was cancelled soon afterwards.
Click HERE to read more.
BBC
Fourteen people were injured at a bonfire event when fireworks malfunctioned and shot into the crowd.
The display at the Antrobus Hotel in Amesbury, Wiltshire, on Saturday night was cancelled soon afterwards.
Click HERE to read more.
Thank you police officers for enforcing fireworks ban
Santa Cruz Sentinel
July 16, 2017
Biking through town on the Fourth of July, it could not be missed how many city and county officers were on duty enforcing the fireworks ban.
I appreciate their efforts to minimize the effect of illegal fireworks on our community on July 4 and in the weeks beforehand. Hopefully over time these continued enforcement efforts will ensure our county is fire free. Thank you to all the officers who spent the holiday working to keep our community safe.
— Jessica Guild, Santa Cruz
July 16, 2017
Biking through town on the Fourth of July, it could not be missed how many city and county officers were on duty enforcing the fireworks ban.
I appreciate their efforts to minimize the effect of illegal fireworks on our community on July 4 and in the weeks beforehand. Hopefully over time these continued enforcement efforts will ensure our county is fire free. Thank you to all the officers who spent the holiday working to keep our community safe.
— Jessica Guild, Santa Cruz
Lompoc fire marshal concerned about rapid rise of illegal fireworks
Recommending ban of all fireworks in the city
KCOY, KEYT, KKFX
July 7, 2017
The sale of legal, safe-and-sane fireworks could be debated once again in Lompoc.
Four years after the city council voted to allow the use of safe-and-sane fireworks, there is now concern it's creating an unwanted issue with illegal fireworks.
"As we continue (to use) the safe-and-sane fireworks, we're seeing more illegal fireworks and we don't know where they're coming from, we haven't been able to stop them," said Lompoc fire marshal and battalion chief Dena Paschke.
Paschke says illegal fireworks were a big issue on a very busy Independence Day.
"They were all over that night," said Paschke. "We were chasing fireworks calls well after 2 a.m. We had so many calls, we actually had to stack them and respond to them as we broke away from a prior call, so it was quite busy."
According to Sgt. Kevin Martin, the police department has been just as busy dealing with the dangerous pyrotechnics.
"Since June 30th through the night of 4th, there has been about 106 reports regarding fireworks," said Martin, who added there has been seven official fireworks-related citations given out.
Paschke, who was in the field throughout the night, was incredulous to the amount of illegal fireworks she came across.
"Many times I would come up to an intersection and right in the middle of the public street, I would see one of these big boxes of fireworks go off," Paschke said, noting that some of the fireworks included nearly 100 rounds of explosions.
She's now so concerned, she'll soon make a serious recommendation to city manager Patrick Wiemiller, who will decide if city council should take up the issue.
"We should look to consider banning all fireworks as a safety precaution," said Paschke. "From a fire safety standpoint, fireworks are inherently dangerous. I would recommend as a fire marshal that we not allow fireworks in the city, but that is up to the council entirely."
Should the council ultimately decided to ban safe-and-sane fireworks, it would be a financial blow to non-profit organizations that operate the popular stands that can earn several thousands of dollars in profits in just a one-week period of time.
Paschke is sympathetic to the hardship it could create for those groups, but says she's just trying to keep everyone safe.
"I agree with non-profits having an opportunity to fundraise and I think it's a wonderful source of revenue for them, but unfortunately we have to look at the other side too where we have all the illegal fireworks and there's no way to curtail that increasing in our city," said Paschke.
If Wiemiller believes council should take up the issue, the debate of the future of fireworks in Lompoc could begin as soon as August.
http://www.keyt.com/news/safety/lompoc-fire-marshal-concerned-about-rapid-rise-of-illegal-fireworks/580714945
July 7, 2017
The sale of legal, safe-and-sane fireworks could be debated once again in Lompoc.
Four years after the city council voted to allow the use of safe-and-sane fireworks, there is now concern it's creating an unwanted issue with illegal fireworks.
"As we continue (to use) the safe-and-sane fireworks, we're seeing more illegal fireworks and we don't know where they're coming from, we haven't been able to stop them," said Lompoc fire marshal and battalion chief Dena Paschke.
Paschke says illegal fireworks were a big issue on a very busy Independence Day.
"They were all over that night," said Paschke. "We were chasing fireworks calls well after 2 a.m. We had so many calls, we actually had to stack them and respond to them as we broke away from a prior call, so it was quite busy."
According to Sgt. Kevin Martin, the police department has been just as busy dealing with the dangerous pyrotechnics.
"Since June 30th through the night of 4th, there has been about 106 reports regarding fireworks," said Martin, who added there has been seven official fireworks-related citations given out.
Paschke, who was in the field throughout the night, was incredulous to the amount of illegal fireworks she came across.
"Many times I would come up to an intersection and right in the middle of the public street, I would see one of these big boxes of fireworks go off," Paschke said, noting that some of the fireworks included nearly 100 rounds of explosions.
She's now so concerned, she'll soon make a serious recommendation to city manager Patrick Wiemiller, who will decide if city council should take up the issue.
"We should look to consider banning all fireworks as a safety precaution," said Paschke. "From a fire safety standpoint, fireworks are inherently dangerous. I would recommend as a fire marshal that we not allow fireworks in the city, but that is up to the council entirely."
Should the council ultimately decided to ban safe-and-sane fireworks, it would be a financial blow to non-profit organizations that operate the popular stands that can earn several thousands of dollars in profits in just a one-week period of time.
Paschke is sympathetic to the hardship it could create for those groups, but says she's just trying to keep everyone safe.
"I agree with non-profits having an opportunity to fundraise and I think it's a wonderful source of revenue for them, but unfortunately we have to look at the other side too where we have all the illegal fireworks and there's no way to curtail that increasing in our city," said Paschke.
If Wiemiller believes council should take up the issue, the debate of the future of fireworks in Lompoc could begin as soon as August.
http://www.keyt.com/news/safety/lompoc-fire-marshal-concerned-about-rapid-rise-of-illegal-fireworks/580714945
Agencies confiscate dozens of illegal fireworks over July 4th holiday
KSBY
July 6, 2017
Parts of San Luis Obispo County were described by some as a war zone this Fourth of July because of illegal fireworks.
CAL FIRE SLO says it seized 300 pounds of illegal fireworks throughout the county.
While Safe and Sane fireworks and professional shows lit up the night sky this Independence Day, it was the illegal fireworks keeping first responders and law enforcement busy.
Templeton Fire and Emergency Services says the park across the street from its station was the busiest it's ever been.
"You have to be careful where you walk. Sometimes they can explode, I guess, out of nowhere," said Natalie Burch who lives next to the park.
"There was definitely a lot of mortars," said Charlie Giaquinto of Templeton.
Templeton Fire and Emergency Services seized nearly a dozen illegal mortars from Templeton Park.
Names like "Diablo" and "Cutting Edge Fireworks" were etched on the side.
"These are illegal because these are pretty much what you're going to see at a professional fireworks display and these are airborne fireworks," said Captain Brandon Wall, Templeton Fire Department.
They are so dangerous, given their track record of injuries and fires.
Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services responded to a 100 by 80-foot vegetation fire caused by an illegal bottle rocket.
California State Parks tells KSBY it's rangers also kept busy at the Oceano Dunes, confiscating dozens of illegal fireworks.
Back in Templeton, resident Christie Giaquinto said, "It was more lively than normal, a war zone. You could see the smoke just driving past the park."
Police in Lompoc say they responded to more than 100 fireworks calls between June 30 and July 4.
http://www.ksby.com/story/35829593/a-war-zone-agencies-confiscate-dozens-of-illegal-fireworks-over-july-4th-holiday
July 6, 2017
Parts of San Luis Obispo County were described by some as a war zone this Fourth of July because of illegal fireworks.
CAL FIRE SLO says it seized 300 pounds of illegal fireworks throughout the county.
While Safe and Sane fireworks and professional shows lit up the night sky this Independence Day, it was the illegal fireworks keeping first responders and law enforcement busy.
Templeton Fire and Emergency Services says the park across the street from its station was the busiest it's ever been.
"You have to be careful where you walk. Sometimes they can explode, I guess, out of nowhere," said Natalie Burch who lives next to the park.
"There was definitely a lot of mortars," said Charlie Giaquinto of Templeton.
Templeton Fire and Emergency Services seized nearly a dozen illegal mortars from Templeton Park.
Names like "Diablo" and "Cutting Edge Fireworks" were etched on the side.
"These are illegal because these are pretty much what you're going to see at a professional fireworks display and these are airborne fireworks," said Captain Brandon Wall, Templeton Fire Department.
They are so dangerous, given their track record of injuries and fires.
Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services responded to a 100 by 80-foot vegetation fire caused by an illegal bottle rocket.
California State Parks tells KSBY it's rangers also kept busy at the Oceano Dunes, confiscating dozens of illegal fireworks.
Back in Templeton, resident Christie Giaquinto said, "It was more lively than normal, a war zone. You could see the smoke just driving past the park."
Police in Lompoc say they responded to more than 100 fireworks calls between June 30 and July 4.
http://www.ksby.com/story/35829593/a-war-zone-agencies-confiscate-dozens-of-illegal-fireworks-over-july-4th-holiday
County’s loud, now illegal, fireworks tradition declines slightly
By Michael Todd, Santa Cruz Sentinel
July 5, 2017
July 5, 2017
Santa Cruz County’s raucous Fourth of July fireworks displays of the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s have calmed, depending [on] who you asked.
A few dozen arrests and a few thousand dollars in illicit explosives were confiscated Tuesday to Wednesday, according to Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.
That’s a sign of improvement and the result of a new, undercover crackdown of illegal pyrotechnics, Sgt. Chris Clark said as he perused a pile of mortars, M-80s and rockets at the sheriff’s office on Wednesday afternoon.
The barrage of festive, illegal explosions continued after midnight Tuesday throughout Santa Cruz and Capitola, but some residents said the clasps [blasts] were fewer than years’ past.
The barrage of festive, illegal explosions continued after midnight Tuesday throughout Santa Cruz and Capitola, but some residents said the clasps [blasts] were fewer than years’ past.
“By 10 o’clock, things got quiet around here,” said Dennis Norton, a former Capitola city councilman. In 1993, Independence Day misbehavior resulted in new rules — and new fears — about the dangers of fireworks mixed with apparent fearlessness.
“That year, it was lucky we didn’t burn the village down,” Norton said. “That ended fireworks in the village. People were digging holes in the beach sand to protect themselves.”
Watsonville Municipal Airport’s Fire In the Sky, an airport open house and aerial display in its first year, drew about 6,000 people, Airport Manager Rayvon Williams said.
“I think that’s a conservative estimate,” Williams said. “If we do it again next year, it’s going to be bigger.”
That celebration’s popularity helped to reduce illegal fireworks in Watsonville on Tuesday night, Sgt. Brian Ridgway said.
“This year, we didn’t have any (gun) shots-fired calls,” Ridgway said. Normally, a few shots-fired calls are recorded on Independence Day in Watsonville.
Watsonville had 141 calls for service on Tuesday, including 51 calls regarding illegal fireworks, Ridgway said. Watsonville had 73 fireworks calls in 2016. There were 160 calls for service on that date last year.
“It could be that the airport show deferred a lot of the complaints because people were able to go see lawful fireworks,” Ridgway said.
Santa Cruz Police Department spokeswoman Joyce Blaschke said the holiday’s timing during the work week helped reduce crowds in the city.
Santa Cruz police responded to 467 calls for service on Tuesday. The department answered 104 fireworks calls between 4 p.m. Tuesday and 12:45 a.m. Wednesday, Blaschke said. Illegal fireworks were reported throughout the city on Independence Day, she said.
There were 41 triple-fine citations, which “were mostly alcohol and fireworks-related,” Blaschke said. She also said every available officer was on patrol Tuesday night.
Clark said there were 70 deputies on duty during the holiday. Those deputies documented 50 citations, 28 fireworks violations and 20 alcohol-related violations noon Tuesday to 5 a.m. Wednesday, Clark said. Overall, 19 people were arrested by the sheriff’s office during that time. He said the beaches and the Live Oak area had the most fireworks calls.
This year, the sheriff’s office had plain-clothed officers patrolling for illegal fireworks, Clark said. Clark said the area had no reports of blazes created by fireworks.
As he showed a trailer load of confiscated fireworks, including 5-inch commercial-grade mortars, Clark explained that people who use such fireworks likely are aware the materials are illegal.
“They know it’s wrong,” Clark said. “This is a significant seizure of fireworks.”
Another Fourth ruined by selfish revelers
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 5, 2017
Once again, a perfectly lovely Fourth of July was ruined as our Westside neighborhood sounded like a war zone well past midnight. I’ll never understand the selfish mindset of people who terrorize their neighbors for hours on end for their own childish pleasure. Where were the police with their promise of “no fireworks of any kind” while my dog trembled in the closet and my family tried to sleep? Obviously the perpetrators knew exactly what a joke that was. Other communities do not put up with this anarchy year after year. Neither should Santa Cruz.
— Tara Leonard, Santa Cruz
July 5, 2017
Once again, a perfectly lovely Fourth of July was ruined as our Westside neighborhood sounded like a war zone well past midnight. I’ll never understand the selfish mindset of people who terrorize their neighbors for hours on end for their own childish pleasure. Where were the police with their promise of “no fireworks of any kind” while my dog trembled in the closet and my family tried to sleep? Obviously the perpetrators knew exactly what a joke that was. Other communities do not put up with this anarchy year after year. Neither should Santa Cruz.
— Tara Leonard, Santa Cruz
Sheriff’s Office doing nothing about fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 5, 2017
Tried to report multiple illegal fireworks going off from single addresses but the first time the non-emergency line was too busy with emergencies and the second time no one answered. Thanks Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office for doing absolutely nothing to help contain our crazy neighbors from shooting mortars over our homes. If my house burned down you would be the first one I sued.
— Ray Johnson, Santa Cruz
July 5, 2017
Tried to report multiple illegal fireworks going off from single addresses but the first time the non-emergency line was too busy with emergencies and the second time no one answered. Thanks Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office for doing absolutely nothing to help contain our crazy neighbors from shooting mortars over our homes. If my house burned down you would be the first one I sued.
— Ray Johnson, Santa Cruz
Fireworks could have caused house fires
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 5, 2017
A huge thank you to the persons who called 911 last night to report three brush fires down the hill from our house along the Branciforte Creek levee. These fires were started by people shooting off illegal fireworks from the parking lot at The Breakers apartment building. The fire department did a great job containing the fires. Had the fire spread up the hill, our house would have gone up in flames.
Thank you fire department. You did an excellent job.
— Woutje Swets, Santa Cruz
July 5, 2017
A huge thank you to the persons who called 911 last night to report three brush fires down the hill from our house along the Branciforte Creek levee. These fires were started by people shooting off illegal fireworks from the parking lot at The Breakers apartment building. The fire department did a great job containing the fires. Had the fire spread up the hill, our house would have gone up in flames.
Thank you fire department. You did an excellent job.
— Woutje Swets, Santa Cruz
Stop the insanity and enforce the law
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 5, 2017
From 4 p.m. until after 2 a.m.! Ten hours! That is how long the residents of my Live Oak neighborhood were subjected to the explosions of illegal fireworks on the Fourth. And that doesn’t include the weeks leading up to the Fourth and most likely the days and months to come. Each year seems to be worse and I don’t understand why our law enforcement community allows this to happen. It was impossible to get through to the Sheriff’s Office yesterday, probably due to getting so many irate calls from residents. My neighborhood was nonstop explosions for hours. It’s hell for people, pets, wildlife and the environment. Save Our Shores folks are probably out there today at the beaches cleaning up from these inconsiderate people who get a momentary thrill from an explosion. Please, can we stop the insanity and enforce the law?
— Erin Conway, Santa Cruz
July 5, 2017
From 4 p.m. until after 2 a.m.! Ten hours! That is how long the residents of my Live Oak neighborhood were subjected to the explosions of illegal fireworks on the Fourth. And that doesn’t include the weeks leading up to the Fourth and most likely the days and months to come. Each year seems to be worse and I don’t understand why our law enforcement community allows this to happen. It was impossible to get through to the Sheriff’s Office yesterday, probably due to getting so many irate calls from residents. My neighborhood was nonstop explosions for hours. It’s hell for people, pets, wildlife and the environment. Save Our Shores folks are probably out there today at the beaches cleaning up from these inconsiderate people who get a momentary thrill from an explosion. Please, can we stop the insanity and enforce the law?
— Erin Conway, Santa Cruz
Editorial Comment -
It is bad enough that residents of Santa Cruz ignore pleas to be considerate of the immense suffering of people, pets and wildlife that they cause by blowing up neighborhoods every year. Now we have tourists thanking them for the show. Sonora go home! Read the following letter. |
Visitor appreciates illegal fireworks displays
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 6, 2017
Santa Cruz offered the perfect reprieve from a scorching heat wave while visiting the Sierra foothills.
That morning fog, so refreshing! I spotted whales breaching, dolphins frolicking and dogs played in the surf at your sanctioned canine beaches. I had a great visit.
With all due respect to noise sensitive pets and the quiet of neighborhoods I would like to thank the brazen men and women who risked fines and detention for the fantastic firework shows on the beach! Kudos for the safe execution of those fireworks. Yes, they are illegal but they are widely appreciated.
— Cherie Newman, Sonora
July 6, 2017
Santa Cruz offered the perfect reprieve from a scorching heat wave while visiting the Sierra foothills.
That morning fog, so refreshing! I spotted whales breaching, dolphins frolicking and dogs played in the surf at your sanctioned canine beaches. I had a great visit.
With all due respect to noise sensitive pets and the quiet of neighborhoods I would like to thank the brazen men and women who risked fines and detention for the fantastic firework shows on the beach! Kudos for the safe execution of those fireworks. Yes, they are illegal but they are widely appreciated.
— Cherie Newman, Sonora
Santa Cruz County dog owners feel plagued by illegal fireworks
Fireworks are illegal in Santa Cruz County, except for “safe and sane” fireworks permitted in Watsonville on the Fourth of July. “Safe and sane” fireworks don’t leave the ground or explode.
Last year, Roberson tried posting “fireworks prohibited by law” signs around her neighborhood, but she said it didn’t help. On Sunday, Roberson sat at her kitchen table, as Molly pawed at her knees, wagging her tail.
“Last night it was just one right after another, and I could tell it was just going to be like that until the Fourth,” Roberson said.
Roberson is one of many dog owners across Santa Cruz County who feel plagued by illegal fireworks because of the effect the booms have on their dogs.
Mimi Trenholme, of the Westlake neighborhood in Santa Cruz, said the blasts trigger seizures in her 10-year-old border collie, who has a convulsive disorder.
Debi Melnikoff, who lives in the same neighborhood, medicates her Airedale terrier with the sedative Trazodone and a dog version of Xanax, prescribed by her veterinarian.
Melnikoff said the illegal fireworks in her neighborhood began around June 24. That’s when she heard a “loud bomb.”
“It was probably like an M-80. (My dog) leapt on the desk in the bedroom and peed all over it. She was just so frightened,” Melnikoff said.
The Fourth of July is the busiest season of the year for the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, which receives cats and dogs, many of which run away from their homes after getting spooked by fireworks, said Melanie Sobel, general manager.
She urges owners to put tagged collars on their pets, and make sure pets are microchipped.
Veterinarian Cristina Topper, of Adobe Animal Hospital of Soquel, said what owners are seeing is their pet’s fear.
“This is the worst time for pets, cats and dogs,” Topper said. “Even a calm dog can become very upset with the onset of fireworks. And I think it affects them more because obviously they don’t know what those fireworks are. It sounds like the end of the world to them. We can explain it to ourselves, but we can’t explain that this isn’t a war and they’re going to be fine.”
Watsonville City Council member Felipe Hernandez has two Chihuahua mixes.
One of them is “kind of nonchalant about (fireworks), except for the explosive ones — the M-100s, the really loud ones — the ones that even I jump to,” said Hernandez, who lives near downtown Watsonville. “The other one’s really scared and he’ll rush under the bed.”
Hernandez said downtown Watsonville has been a hotspot for illegal fireworks, but this year he’s seen some improvement in his neighborhood. He thinks it’s partly because of Watsonville’s “Fire in the Sky”airport open house and professional fireworks display planned for Tuesday night.
The event is designed to showcase the airport and reduce illegal fireworks in Watsonville, he said.
Hernandez moderates a “Lost dogs of Watsonville” Facebook group, which has suddenly become busy, he said. He urges the community to close all windows and doors and keep their pets inside this holiday.
“Those dogs, they turn into escape artists and they get out because they’re afraid of the booms,” Hernandez said. “They’ll get out through windows, cracks in the door, anything. They’ll get out.”
Last year, Roberson tried posting “fireworks prohibited by law” signs around her neighborhood, but she said it didn’t help. On Sunday, Roberson sat at her kitchen table, as Molly pawed at her knees, wagging her tail.
“Last night it was just one right after another, and I could tell it was just going to be like that until the Fourth,” Roberson said.
Roberson is one of many dog owners across Santa Cruz County who feel plagued by illegal fireworks because of the effect the booms have on their dogs.
Mimi Trenholme, of the Westlake neighborhood in Santa Cruz, said the blasts trigger seizures in her 10-year-old border collie, who has a convulsive disorder.
Debi Melnikoff, who lives in the same neighborhood, medicates her Airedale terrier with the sedative Trazodone and a dog version of Xanax, prescribed by her veterinarian.
Melnikoff said the illegal fireworks in her neighborhood began around June 24. That’s when she heard a “loud bomb.”
“It was probably like an M-80. (My dog) leapt on the desk in the bedroom and peed all over it. She was just so frightened,” Melnikoff said.
The Fourth of July is the busiest season of the year for the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, which receives cats and dogs, many of which run away from their homes after getting spooked by fireworks, said Melanie Sobel, general manager.
She urges owners to put tagged collars on their pets, and make sure pets are microchipped.
Veterinarian Cristina Topper, of Adobe Animal Hospital of Soquel, said what owners are seeing is their pet’s fear.
“This is the worst time for pets, cats and dogs,” Topper said. “Even a calm dog can become very upset with the onset of fireworks. And I think it affects them more because obviously they don’t know what those fireworks are. It sounds like the end of the world to them. We can explain it to ourselves, but we can’t explain that this isn’t a war and they’re going to be fine.”
Watsonville City Council member Felipe Hernandez has two Chihuahua mixes.
One of them is “kind of nonchalant about (fireworks), except for the explosive ones — the M-100s, the really loud ones — the ones that even I jump to,” said Hernandez, who lives near downtown Watsonville. “The other one’s really scared and he’ll rush under the bed.”
Hernandez said downtown Watsonville has been a hotspot for illegal fireworks, but this year he’s seen some improvement in his neighborhood. He thinks it’s partly because of Watsonville’s “Fire in the Sky”airport open house and professional fireworks display planned for Tuesday night.
The event is designed to showcase the airport and reduce illegal fireworks in Watsonville, he said.
Hernandez moderates a “Lost dogs of Watsonville” Facebook group, which has suddenly become busy, he said. He urges the community to close all windows and doors and keep their pets inside this holiday.
“Those dogs, they turn into escape artists and they get out because they’re afraid of the booms,” Hernandez said. “They’ll get out through windows, cracks in the door, anything. They’ll get out.”
July 4th Events Without Fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Coastlines
July 1, 2017
The Boulder Creek Fourth of July parade, sponsored by the Boulder Creek Business Association, will step off at 10 a.m. Tuesday on Highway 9.
The highway will be closed until noon for the parade, with traffic detoured onto South Street, Boulder Street, Oak Street and Lorenzo Street in front of the fire station.
Firecracker Road Race Set for Tuesday
The Firecracker 5K/10K will take place Tuesday at Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen St.
Races start at 8 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 8:40 a.m. Cost is $50 for adults, and $25 for kids. There will be an aerobics warm-up and Santa Cruz DJ Co. with tunes. Awards are at 9:45 a.m.
Santa Cruz Pop Warner will serve a pancake breakfast with eggs and sausage 7-11 a.m. at the Harvey West Clubhouse. Free parking is available at Costco.
Runners can pick up goodie bags, shirts, and bib numbers from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, at Fleet Feet Aptos, 26 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, at Whole Foods, 911 Soquel Ave.
Register: SantaCruzFireCracker10K.org.
Coastlines
July 1, 2017
The Boulder Creek Fourth of July parade, sponsored by the Boulder Creek Business Association, will step off at 10 a.m. Tuesday on Highway 9.
The highway will be closed until noon for the parade, with traffic detoured onto South Street, Boulder Street, Oak Street and Lorenzo Street in front of the fire station.
Firecracker Road Race Set for Tuesday
The Firecracker 5K/10K will take place Tuesday at Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen St.
Races start at 8 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 8:40 a.m. Cost is $50 for adults, and $25 for kids. There will be an aerobics warm-up and Santa Cruz DJ Co. with tunes. Awards are at 9:45 a.m.
Santa Cruz Pop Warner will serve a pancake breakfast with eggs and sausage 7-11 a.m. at the Harvey West Clubhouse. Free parking is available at Costco.
Runners can pick up goodie bags, shirts, and bib numbers from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, at Fleet Feet Aptos, 26 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, at Whole Foods, 911 Soquel Ave.
Register: SantaCruzFireCracker10K.org.
Germany 'pollution spike' follows New Year's Eve fireworks
January 3, 2017
A new year and new resolve to stop fireworks from harming our health. Consider this from a BBC news article:
"New Year's Eve fireworks contributed to dangerously high levels of pollution in several German cities, official figures suggest. In Munich, particulate levels briefly reached 26 times the EU-recommended daily limit of 50 micrograms of particulates per cubic metre of air."
"Fireworks and bonfires marking the UK's Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November have also been blamed for pollution spikes."
It is time for Santa Cruz to acknowledge the health impacts of fireworks and convince the District Attorney to follow through with prosecution of citations that are issued.
Click HERE to read the article.
A new year and new resolve to stop fireworks from harming our health. Consider this from a BBC news article:
"New Year's Eve fireworks contributed to dangerously high levels of pollution in several German cities, official figures suggest. In Munich, particulate levels briefly reached 26 times the EU-recommended daily limit of 50 micrograms of particulates per cubic metre of air."
"Fireworks and bonfires marking the UK's Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November have also been blamed for pollution spikes."
It is time for Santa Cruz to acknowledge the health impacts of fireworks and convince the District Attorney to follow through with prosecution of citations that are issued.
Click HERE to read the article.
Powers that be must work to stop illegal fireworks
December 23, 2016
Santa Cruz Sentinel
I wonder if the powers that be noticed in today’s paper that the top reported issue to the Sheriff’s Office so far this year has been fireworks at 755 complaints. Next was abandoned vehicles at 217. A local veteran with PTSD begged in a recent online post to please everyone stop these blasts because of the agony it was causing him. It is the most defenseless among us — veterans with PTSD, pets and wildlife — who suffer most from these illegal fireworks set off all year long for the momentary pleasures of a few. Please, powers that be, take notice!
— E.L. Roberson, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Sentinel
I wonder if the powers that be noticed in today’s paper that the top reported issue to the Sheriff’s Office so far this year has been fireworks at 755 complaints. Next was abandoned vehicles at 217. A local veteran with PTSD begged in a recent online post to please everyone stop these blasts because of the agony it was causing him. It is the most defenseless among us — veterans with PTSD, pets and wildlife — who suffer most from these illegal fireworks set off all year long for the momentary pleasures of a few. Please, powers that be, take notice!
— E.L. Roberson, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz County’s Fourth of July strategy: mixed reviews
September 20, 2016
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Residents who spent a year talking cordially with deputies and preparing for Independence Day were frustrated that 40 seizures of fireworks resulted in a single citation.
Jean Brocklebank, representing 160 people in the year old Freedom from Fireworks, complimented the campaign orchestrated by county spokesman Jason Hoppin but she expected more citations given the number of fireworks seizures.
Click HERE to read the article.
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Residents who spent a year talking cordially with deputies and preparing for Independence Day were frustrated that 40 seizures of fireworks resulted in a single citation.
Jean Brocklebank, representing 160 people in the year old Freedom from Fireworks, complimented the campaign orchestrated by county spokesman Jason Hoppin but she expected more citations given the number of fireworks seizures.
Click HERE to read the article.
Thanks to Santa Cruz police for fireworks control
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 9, 2016
Our thanks to the Santa Cruz Police Department for its enhanced-fireworks control efforts on the Westside. As another letter-writer observed, it reduced the noise that terrifies our animals, and keeps us awake, every July Fourth. I was struck by a recent letter from a resident who believes the laws should not be enforced, and that countless animals should suffer, so her 9-year-old can see a professional-level fireworks display within walking distance of their home. Too much work for her to drive her 9-year-old to Scotts Valley for a safe, controlled, city-sponsored fireworks display?
— Steven Brodsky, Santa Cruz
July 9, 2016
Our thanks to the Santa Cruz Police Department for its enhanced-fireworks control efforts on the Westside. As another letter-writer observed, it reduced the noise that terrifies our animals, and keeps us awake, every July Fourth. I was struck by a recent letter from a resident who believes the laws should not be enforced, and that countless animals should suffer, so her 9-year-old can see a professional-level fireworks display within walking distance of their home. Too much work for her to drive her 9-year-old to Scotts Valley for a safe, controlled, city-sponsored fireworks display?
— Steven Brodsky, Santa Cruz
Boy on Santa Cruz beach loses hand,
as man in San Jose loses both hands
as man in San Jose loses both hands
Think of Others Before Setting Off Fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 6, 2016
It is a lovely July 4 evening in my neighborhood in Live Oak in Santa Cruz County but it feels like a war zone again this year. There are illegal fireworks exploding all around. There are terrorized animals everywhere, many countless ones in the Animal Shelter and in the SPCA, both facilities being located in this area.
I’m trying to comfort my dog Molly as she as been terrified for many hours now by all the fireworks exploding nearby and she is shaking and crouching under the bed. I finally sit down at my computer. Suddenly it stops working, the lights go out, the phone dies and I am sitting here in the dark. I cannot find a light until I remember the tiny flashlight in my purse. I dig it out and now I can see to get around but I do not see Molly. I crawl under my desk to check the computer and here she is, cowering amongst the tangle of wires from all these electronic devices.
I am sharing this very real experience that I had this year in the hope that someone thinking of setting off these illegal fireworks all around Santa Cruz County will read it and maybe, just maybe, they will think twice before doing so — at least for next year.
— Eve Roberson, Santa Cruz
July 6, 2016
It is a lovely July 4 evening in my neighborhood in Live Oak in Santa Cruz County but it feels like a war zone again this year. There are illegal fireworks exploding all around. There are terrorized animals everywhere, many countless ones in the Animal Shelter and in the SPCA, both facilities being located in this area.
I’m trying to comfort my dog Molly as she as been terrified for many hours now by all the fireworks exploding nearby and she is shaking and crouching under the bed. I finally sit down at my computer. Suddenly it stops working, the lights go out, the phone dies and I am sitting here in the dark. I cannot find a light until I remember the tiny flashlight in my purse. I dig it out and now I can see to get around but I do not see Molly. I crawl under my desk to check the computer and here she is, cowering amongst the tangle of wires from all these electronic devices.
I am sharing this very real experience that I had this year in the hope that someone thinking of setting off these illegal fireworks all around Santa Cruz County will read it and maybe, just maybe, they will think twice before doing so — at least for next year.
— Eve Roberson, Santa Cruz
Police Listened to Westside Complaints
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
July 6, 2016
Bravo Santa Cruz City Police. Thankfully, the Santa Cruz Police Department has finally heard the pleas from Westside residents concerning the “war zone” atmosphere on West Cliff on the Fourth of July. The cliffs were lighted with spotlights facing the beach. There were security people every few feet along the walkway. There was an officer checking backpacks at the entrance to Mitchell’s Cove. There was a noticeable police presence on the roadway. It was such a relief to have such a calm atmosphere this year as opposed to previous years which were filled with hoards of people shooting fireworks from the cliffs and beach and general mayhem. Actually, while walking along West Cliff, the view of the crashing waves from the high tide made the evening quite enjoyable. Thank you for listening to the Westside neighbors.
— Joy Parker, Santa Cruz
July 6, 2016
Bravo Santa Cruz City Police. Thankfully, the Santa Cruz Police Department has finally heard the pleas from Westside residents concerning the “war zone” atmosphere on West Cliff on the Fourth of July. The cliffs were lighted with spotlights facing the beach. There were security people every few feet along the walkway. There was an officer checking backpacks at the entrance to Mitchell’s Cove. There was a noticeable police presence on the roadway. It was such a relief to have such a calm atmosphere this year as opposed to previous years which were filled with hoards of people shooting fireworks from the cliffs and beach and general mayhem. Actually, while walking along West Cliff, the view of the crashing waves from the high tide made the evening quite enjoyable. Thank you for listening to the Westside neighbors.
— Joy Parker, Santa Cruz
County fireworks PSA
Click HERE to view the Santa Cruz County fireworks Public Service Announcement.
Forget education approach, boost fines for fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
June 24, 2016
I live in Live Oak, and the noise from fireworks here is intolerable. Last year, Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve, the barrage lasted three hours, constant despite the fact there were no legal sanctioned fireworks in my area. I was told this year the county was focusing on education. That’s great, but it’s not enough. Most of the people involved in setting off fireworks really don’t care about the impact they are having on wildlife, on people who are noise-reactive or who have noise-reactive pets or the vets who fought for our freedom and now suffer from PTSD. Education is not enough. Authorities need to start arresting and ticketing the doers, and the fines need to be steep. Pass whatever laws you need to to make this legal, and get drones up in the air with cameras and GPS devices and send fines to the property owners. People are not going to stop their fireworks unless you arrest them, ticket them, fine them, and make it hurt. Then you will get results.
— Deadra Rubin, Santa Cruz
June 24, 2016
I live in Live Oak, and the noise from fireworks here is intolerable. Last year, Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve, the barrage lasted three hours, constant despite the fact there were no legal sanctioned fireworks in my area. I was told this year the county was focusing on education. That’s great, but it’s not enough. Most of the people involved in setting off fireworks really don’t care about the impact they are having on wildlife, on people who are noise-reactive or who have noise-reactive pets or the vets who fought for our freedom and now suffer from PTSD. Education is not enough. Authorities need to start arresting and ticketing the doers, and the fines need to be steep. Pass whatever laws you need to to make this legal, and get drones up in the air with cameras and GPS devices and send fines to the property owners. People are not going to stop their fireworks unless you arrest them, ticket them, fine them, and make it hurt. Then you will get results.
— Deadra Rubin, Santa Cruz
Changes to Fireworks Enforcement
Santa Cruz Mountain Bulletin
June 10, 2016
by Rachel Wooster
Last October I wrote about a new group called Freedom From Fireworks that is working to solve the fireworks problem in Santa Cruz County. These past eight months they have been quite busy and at the May 10th Board of Supervisors meeting, the group’s recommendations were implemented.
Click HERE to read more.
June 10, 2016
by Rachel Wooster
Last October I wrote about a new group called Freedom From Fireworks that is working to solve the fireworks problem in Santa Cruz County. These past eight months they have been quite busy and at the May 10th Board of Supervisors meeting, the group’s recommendations were implemented.
Click HERE to read more.
Be considerate of vets
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letter to the Editor
June 17, 2016
Let me remind the public that fireworks are prohibited in Santa Cruz. Many veterans are suffering from the combat that they encountered while serving in Vietnam. Most of us suffer from PTSD and other aliments we were exposed to while serving. Please be considerate and restrict the use of fireworks this Fourth of July and let us peacefully enjoy this holiday without being subjected to explosions from fireworks. Thanks in advance for being considerate.
— Francis Gutowski, Santa Cruz
June 17, 2016
Let me remind the public that fireworks are prohibited in Santa Cruz. Many veterans are suffering from the combat that they encountered while serving in Vietnam. Most of us suffer from PTSD and other aliments we were exposed to while serving. Please be considerate and restrict the use of fireworks this Fourth of July and let us peacefully enjoy this holiday without being subjected to explosions from fireworks. Thanks in advance for being considerate.
— Francis Gutowski, Santa Cruz
June 15, 2016
Santa Cruz County has begun to install signs in June, leading up to the July 4th weekend. We thank the County for this extra educational campaign!!!
Feel free to print a facsimile of this sign for your yard or as flyers to share with neighbors.
Feel free to print a facsimile of this sign for your yard or as flyers to share with neighbors.
Santa Cruz County Memorial Day visitors advised to play safely
Santa Cruz Sentinel
By Stephen Baxter
05/27/16
While celebrating military veterans, authorities reminded residents not to light off illegal fireworks in the county.
Fireworks possession carries a $1,000 fine in Santa Cruz County except on private property in Capitola, authorities said.
“This is really about adults who live in this community or come to visit and they’re shooting off large fireworks off cliffs and at the beach,” Santa Cruz County Sheriff Jim Hart said this month.
FIREWORKS
Sheriff’s deputies have said that during Memorial Day weekend they plan to split high-traffic areas such as Live Oak into smaller patrol areas for each deputy. That way, deputies can respond to more reports of illegal fireworks.
The renewed effort comes after months of neighbors’ complaints and organizing about the issue. Fireworks can injure people, present a fire danger, frighten pets, leave debris on streets and beaches, cause lost sleep and hamper military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, residents have said.
Illegal fireworks locations can be reported to the Sheriff’s Office nonemergency line at 831-471-1121.
Click HERE to read more.
By Stephen Baxter
05/27/16
While celebrating military veterans, authorities reminded residents not to light off illegal fireworks in the county.
Fireworks possession carries a $1,000 fine in Santa Cruz County except on private property in Capitola, authorities said.
“This is really about adults who live in this community or come to visit and they’re shooting off large fireworks off cliffs and at the beach,” Santa Cruz County Sheriff Jim Hart said this month.
FIREWORKS
Sheriff’s deputies have said that during Memorial Day weekend they plan to split high-traffic areas such as Live Oak into smaller patrol areas for each deputy. That way, deputies can respond to more reports of illegal fireworks.
The renewed effort comes after months of neighbors’ complaints and organizing about the issue. Fireworks can injure people, present a fire danger, frighten pets, leave debris on streets and beaches, cause lost sleep and hamper military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, residents have said.
Illegal fireworks locations can be reported to the Sheriff’s Office nonemergency line at 831-471-1121.
Click HERE to read more.
Santa Cruz County deputies to step up fireworks enforcement
Santa Cruz Sentinel, May 17, 2016
Santa Cruz County sheriff’s deputies plan to make some tactical changes on Independence Day weekend and the weeks leading up to it to reduce problems with illegal fireworks.
A meeting at the Sheriff’s Office headquarters Monday night tackled fireworks and other problems and drew more than 50 people.
Click HERE to read more.
Santa Cruz County sheriff’s deputies plan to make some tactical changes on Independence Day weekend and the weeks leading up to it to reduce problems with illegal fireworks.
A meeting at the Sheriff’s Office headquarters Monday night tackled fireworks and other problems and drew more than 50 people.
Click HERE to read more.
Speak now on fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letters - March 3, 2016
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160514/letters-may-15-2016-data-on-dogs-on-beaches-must-not-be-skewed
For those hating out-of-control, illegal, year-round countywide fireworks, come to a community meeting at 7 p.m. Monday May 16 at the Sheriff’s Office Center for Public Safety at 5200 Soquel Ave. After more than a year of work by a group, Freedom From Fireworks, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors approved a plan May 10 for improved enforcement of the fireworks problem. This meeting conducted by the Sheriff’s Office will inform the public about new strategies by the sheriff, but also provide a chance for the public to raise concerns with county law enforcement and discuss the new rules. Two good letters to the Sentinel make it clear people (and pets) hate illegal, out-of-control fireworks.
— Richard and Ramona Andre, Aptos
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160514/letters-may-15-2016-data-on-dogs-on-beaches-must-not-be-skewed
For those hating out-of-control, illegal, year-round countywide fireworks, come to a community meeting at 7 p.m. Monday May 16 at the Sheriff’s Office Center for Public Safety at 5200 Soquel Ave. After more than a year of work by a group, Freedom From Fireworks, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors approved a plan May 10 for improved enforcement of the fireworks problem. This meeting conducted by the Sheriff’s Office will inform the public about new strategies by the sheriff, but also provide a chance for the public to raise concerns with county law enforcement and discuss the new rules. Two good letters to the Sentinel make it clear people (and pets) hate illegal, out-of-control fireworks.
— Richard and Ramona Andre, Aptos
Capitola mayor should lead us by example
Santa Cruz Sentinel Letters - March 3, 2016
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160303/letters-march-4-2016-kaiser-permanente-could-have-gone-anywhere
I would like to speak on behalf of the ocean to longtime Save Our Shores board member and Capitola Mayor, Dennis Norton. Please cancel any future Capitola fireworks displays over the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Such displays dump thousands of pounds of ordinance into a delicate marine environment, damaging or destroying the habitats of marine life, some of which are threatened or endangered. So, please, Mr. Save Our Shores/Capitola mayor, do not sacrifice the ocean, by dumping thousands of pounds of toxic trash into it, whether it is under the guise of a “good cause” or not. Lead us by example, protect the ocean and take a stand against any future fireworks displays. The ocean will hug you for it.
— Sienna White, Santa Cruz
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160303/letters-march-4-2016-kaiser-permanente-could-have-gone-anywhere
I would like to speak on behalf of the ocean to longtime Save Our Shores board member and Capitola Mayor, Dennis Norton. Please cancel any future Capitola fireworks displays over the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Such displays dump thousands of pounds of ordinance into a delicate marine environment, damaging or destroying the habitats of marine life, some of which are threatened or endangered. So, please, Mr. Save Our Shores/Capitola mayor, do not sacrifice the ocean, by dumping thousands of pounds of toxic trash into it, whether it is under the guise of a “good cause” or not. Lead us by example, protect the ocean and take a stand against any future fireworks displays. The ocean will hug you for it.
— Sienna White, Santa Cruz
Consider sparing residents dreadfully loud fireworks
Santa Cruz Sentinel - Letters
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160226/letters-feb-27-2016-posner-has-credibility-problem-of-the-highest-order
The Capitola City Council has just approved the Monte Foundation spending beaucoup bucks again this year to put on its massive fireworks display, with the promise that the event will support the new Capitola Library. I have an idea: How about just donating all that money going up in smoke and air pollution to the Library Fund instead? These Beirut-style blasts that terrify our defenseless cats and dogs all over the area would definitely thank the foundation, as would the rest of the taxpayers funding the library. A win-win situation!
— Eve Roberson, Live Oak
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/opinion/20160226/letters-feb-27-2016-posner-has-credibility-problem-of-the-highest-order
The Capitola City Council has just approved the Monte Foundation spending beaucoup bucks again this year to put on its massive fireworks display, with the promise that the event will support the new Capitola Library. I have an idea: How about just donating all that money going up in smoke and air pollution to the Library Fund instead? These Beirut-style blasts that terrify our defenseless cats and dogs all over the area would definitely thank the foundation, as would the rest of the taxpayers funding the library. A win-win situation!
— Eve Roberson, Live Oak
KUSP's Dr. Dawn Talks Fireworks
February 13, 2015
FFF Supporter Ramona Andre talks with Dr. Dawn. (3 minutes)
FFF Supporter Ramona Andre talks with Dr. Dawn. (3 minutes)
Dr. Dawn on Fireworks.mp3 | |
File Size: | 2917 kb |
File Type: | mp3 |
City of Santa Maria Educates Public About Illegal Fireworks
An interesting report by the City Manager to the City Council on the positive results of their educational campaign can be seen in the video linked below.
Important to note: In Santa Cruz (except within the City of Watsonville) "safe and sane" fireworks are illegal, whereas in Santa Maria, their use is confined to July 4th and they are illegal the other 364 days of the year. "Safe and sane" does not keep Santa Maria illegal fireworks free, however. They have the same problems as Santa Cruz, throughout their neighborhoods, throughout the year.
Click HERE to watch YouTube video. The report starts at 2 minutes, 21 seconds into the video.
Important to note: In Santa Cruz (except within the City of Watsonville) "safe and sane" fireworks are illegal, whereas in Santa Maria, their use is confined to July 4th and they are illegal the other 364 days of the year. "Safe and sane" does not keep Santa Maria illegal fireworks free, however. They have the same problems as Santa Cruz, throughout their neighborhoods, throughout the year.
Click HERE to watch YouTube video. The report starts at 2 minutes, 21 seconds into the video.
Fireworks are fun – but the effects are not
November 15, 2015
The Guardian
The sparkles from fireworks last a few seconds but the air pollution can linger in our cities for hours.
Firework smoke is rich in tiny metal particles making it very different to normal urban air pollution. These metals are used to make firework colours in much the same way as Victorian scientists identified chemicals by burning them in a Bunsen flame; red from strontium or lithium, blue from copper and bright green or white from barium compounds.
Click HERE to read more.
The Guardian
The sparkles from fireworks last a few seconds but the air pollution can linger in our cities for hours.
Firework smoke is rich in tiny metal particles making it very different to normal urban air pollution. These metals are used to make firework colours in much the same way as Victorian scientists identified chemicals by burning them in a Bunsen flame; red from strontium or lithium, blue from copper and bright green or white from barium compounds.
Click HERE to read more.
In New Zealand Traditional Holiday Fireworks Cause Problems
Children playing with fireworks start Port Hills fire
Auckland girl badly burned by firework
Wairarapa pet survives Guy Fawkes terror
Missing guide dog in Wellington
Fires and injuries as fireworks let off
Auckland girl badly burned by firework
Wairarapa pet survives Guy Fawkes terror
Missing guide dog in Wellington
Fires and injuries as fireworks let off
New Zealand horse owners want ban on fireworks sales
November 8, 2015
A survey conducted by Massey University equine specialists suggests 90 per cent of New Zealand horse owners oppose the sale of fireworks for personal use and more than a quarter report their horses suffering injuries as a result of being frightened by fireworks.
Almost 38 per cent of owners reported that their horses had broken through fences and a quarter of participants reported that their horses had sustained injuries the owners believed to be associated with the reaction to fireworks.
Click HERE to read more.
A survey conducted by Massey University equine specialists suggests 90 per cent of New Zealand horse owners oppose the sale of fireworks for personal use and more than a quarter report their horses suffering injuries as a result of being frightened by fireworks.
Almost 38 per cent of owners reported that their horses had broken through fences and a quarter of participants reported that their horses had sustained injuries the owners believed to be associated with the reaction to fireworks.
Click HERE to read more.
Bangs at Birmingham silent fireworks display 'upset children'
BBC News
November 8, 2015
Parents who went to a silent fireworks display at Birmingham Botanical Gardens have claimed loud bangs frightened their children.
The event was advertised as: "A fireworks display with a little bit of a difference, with no bangers or loud noises ideal for the little ones."
But parents sent messages to the attraction's Twitter account claiming the noise left children distressed.
Click HERE to read more.
November 8, 2015
Parents who went to a silent fireworks display at Birmingham Botanical Gardens have claimed loud bangs frightened their children.
The event was advertised as: "A fireworks display with a little bit of a difference, with no bangers or loud noises ideal for the little ones."
But parents sent messages to the attraction's Twitter account claiming the noise left children distressed.
Click HERE to read more.
Controlling Fireworks Back Before City Council
Long Beach Gazettes
Harry Saltzgaver
Nov 2, 2015
Third District Councilwoman Suzie Price will ask the City Council to reestablish a Fireworks Steering Committee to be more proactive in education and enforcement of Long Beach’s fireworks prohibition.
Long Beach has made all fireworks, even those labeled safe and sane, illegal within the city limits. But several surrounding cities allow some fireworks, and complaints about very loud fireworks creating a public nuisance escalated last year.
Click HERE to read more.
Harry Saltzgaver
Nov 2, 2015
Third District Councilwoman Suzie Price will ask the City Council to reestablish a Fireworks Steering Committee to be more proactive in education and enforcement of Long Beach’s fireworks prohibition.
Long Beach has made all fireworks, even those labeled safe and sane, illegal within the city limits. But several surrounding cities allow some fireworks, and complaints about very loud fireworks creating a public nuisance escalated last year.
Click HERE to read more.
New Group Works to Solve the Fireworks Problem
October 16, 2015
by Rachel Wooster
A new group called Freedom From Fireworks formed earlier this year with the sole purpose of trying to solve the problem of fireworks use throughout the year in Santa Cruz County. The group currently represents over 50 neighborhoods, has 120+ members with 16 core leadership members. Fireworks, even safe and sane fireworks, are illegal in Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz, but that does not mean they don’t go off in our neighborhoods throughout the year.
Click HERE for more.
by Rachel Wooster
A new group called Freedom From Fireworks formed earlier this year with the sole purpose of trying to solve the problem of fireworks use throughout the year in Santa Cruz County. The group currently represents over 50 neighborhoods, has 120+ members with 16 core leadership members. Fireworks, even safe and sane fireworks, are illegal in Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz, but that does not mean they don’t go off in our neighborhoods throughout the year.
Click HERE for more.
Capitola fireworks not appreciated by everyone
Santa Cruz Sentinel
October 13, 2015
The fireworks display in Capitola on Sunday night was completely disruptive to anyone within hearing distance. The organizers used too much firepower for too long. It completely disrupted indoor activities and scared animals. It’s more annoying than the uncontrolled incendiary devices used by lawbreakers locally each Independence Day.
While the visual display may be impressive, far greater numbers of homeowners found the deafening explosions an irresponsible public disservice. The City Council should think carefully about the effects to the public at large, not just proceeds for their community. Sadly, the last year’s proceeds were wasted on an ill-informed Council decision to create a skate park over a dump site without soil contamination tests.
I invite Mr. Monte to return Aptos so the patrons of his Deluxe Food store can enjoy the sounds of terror more intimately. Rudy would not have been proud of what happened last night.
— John Chamberlain, Live Oak
October 13, 2015
The fireworks display in Capitola on Sunday night was completely disruptive to anyone within hearing distance. The organizers used too much firepower for too long. It completely disrupted indoor activities and scared animals. It’s more annoying than the uncontrolled incendiary devices used by lawbreakers locally each Independence Day.
While the visual display may be impressive, far greater numbers of homeowners found the deafening explosions an irresponsible public disservice. The City Council should think carefully about the effects to the public at large, not just proceeds for their community. Sadly, the last year’s proceeds were wasted on an ill-informed Council decision to create a skate park over a dump site without soil contamination tests.
I invite Mr. Monte to return Aptos so the patrons of his Deluxe Food store can enjoy the sounds of terror more intimately. Rudy would not have been proud of what happened last night.
— John Chamberlain, Live Oak
Fireworks sanity is good for all
Santa Maria Times
September 24, 2015
It is obvious that peaceful communities and the detonation of fireworks several times each year are mutually exclusive concepts.
In Santa Maria, the coalition has asked the City Council to step up its enforcement of prohibitions against illegal fireworks. The city already has a tough policy against illegal fireworks. In fact, the policy calls for zero tolerance. Unfortunately, there seems to be a pattern of not enforcing those laws already on the books. For its part, city officials say strategies for stricter enforcement are being worked out.
Click HERE to read more.
September 24, 2015
It is obvious that peaceful communities and the detonation of fireworks several times each year are mutually exclusive concepts.
In Santa Maria, the coalition has asked the City Council to step up its enforcement of prohibitions against illegal fireworks. The city already has a tough policy against illegal fireworks. In fact, the policy calls for zero tolerance. Unfortunately, there seems to be a pattern of not enforcing those laws already on the books. For its part, city officials say strategies for stricter enforcement are being worked out.
Click HERE to read more.
Letters to the Editor 09.17.15 - Monterey County Weekly
Sorry to see Kera Abraham leave the Monterey County Weekly. She’s been the primary source of well-researched environmental education for the Monterey Bay area. We appreciate her article (“Microplastic is polluting the ocean – and our own food supply. Here’s what happens to trash that never really goes away,” Sept. 3-9) about microplastics polluting the ocean and food supply. In addition, we hope someone can follow up as she might have with an article on the proliferation of fires and explosive toxic fireworks along the beaches, creating serious air, water, sand and noise pollution.
It’s time that the residents and government leaders take this seriously and act to ban the fires and fireworks permanently. Ramona and Richard Andre | Aptos
It’s time that the residents and government leaders take this seriously and act to ban the fires and fireworks permanently. Ramona and Richard Andre | Aptos
Groups Ask Santa Maria To Enforce Zero Tolerance Policy
September 16, 2015
With illegal fireworks still being ignited weeks after the Fourth of July, the Santa Maria Valley Humane Society urged the city “to do what is legally and morally required” to enforce the zero tolerance policy.
“And further, to set an example as a truly All American city by declaring that a blatant disregard for the laws in place will not be tolerated in any form now or in the future,”
Click HERE to read more.
With illegal fireworks still being ignited weeks after the Fourth of July, the Santa Maria Valley Humane Society urged the city “to do what is legally and morally required” to enforce the zero tolerance policy.
“And further, to set an example as a truly All American city by declaring that a blatant disregard for the laws in place will not be tolerated in any form now or in the future,”
Click HERE to read more.
Clark County up in arms over Pahrump's fireworks
August 28, 2015
Clark County [Nevada] is fed up with Las Vegans firing off illegal fireworks on Independence Day and they have plans to curb the banned items, which includes possibly targeting Nye County.
Commissioner Larry Brown explained that he believes targeting areas selling the illegal items is the way to curb usage in Las Vegas.
"I guess what I am getting at here is the enforcement," Brown said. "Trying to get to the source, signage might be part of it, but there are ways we can get to the source of the sale."
"I don't see the purpose of allowing these in any county if they're illegal here. I'd at least take a look at trying to identify where they're coming from… I'd be interested in if we can start attacking the source point of sales."
Click HERE to read more
Clark County [Nevada] is fed up with Las Vegans firing off illegal fireworks on Independence Day and they have plans to curb the banned items, which includes possibly targeting Nye County.
Commissioner Larry Brown explained that he believes targeting areas selling the illegal items is the way to curb usage in Las Vegas.
"I guess what I am getting at here is the enforcement," Brown said. "Trying to get to the source, signage might be part of it, but there are ways we can get to the source of the sale."
"I don't see the purpose of allowing these in any county if they're illegal here. I'd at least take a look at trying to identify where they're coming from… I'd be interested in if we can start attacking the source point of sales."
Click HERE to read more
Bakersfield Fire Chief calls on City Council to ban all fireworks
August 24, 2015
"Supporters of fireworks said that non-profits rely on the money fireworks stands bring in each year. But Weber and BFD aren't convinced. 'No amount of money is worth the loss of a home, is worth the loss of a pet or is worth the loss of a life,' Weber said."
Click HERE to read more.
"Supporters of fireworks said that non-profits rely on the money fireworks stands bring in each year. But Weber and BFD aren't convinced. 'No amount of money is worth the loss of a home, is worth the loss of a pet or is worth the loss of a life,' Weber said."
Click HERE to read more.
Lompoc pet owners against illegal fireworks make progress with city
August 19, 2015
Local pet owners who formed a group to advocate against illegal fireworks made progress in their quest to see the city crack down on enforcement at Tuesday's City Council meeting
"I'm sure you know who I am," said the group's leader Debbie Warren, addressing the council Tuesday. "We're here about the fireworks issue again. As we promised, we aren't going away."
Click HERE to read more.
Local pet owners who formed a group to advocate against illegal fireworks made progress in their quest to see the city crack down on enforcement at Tuesday's City Council meeting
"I'm sure you know who I am," said the group's leader Debbie Warren, addressing the council Tuesday. "We're here about the fireworks issue again. As we promised, we aren't going away."
Click HERE to read more.
Fireworks are as Loud as Gunfire
The following graphic is from an article about Army research into the physical effects on human hearing of exposure to loud sounds such as gunfire .
(http://www.wsj.com/articles/army-tests-hearing-drug-at-the-rifle-range-1440182197) |
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Illegal Fireworks Crackdown
Manteca ponders new law, $1,000 fine
August 6, 2015
"The Manteca City Council is exploring changes in the municipal ordinance that — if implemented — would target property owners for allowing the discharge of illegal fireworks from land they own whether they occupy it or rent it out.
"Dennis Revell representing T-n-T Fireworks told the council the industry is working on a free app they plan to make available to cities that would allow anyone to download it and record illegal fireworks being shot off and to send them directly to police departments. The videos, if they can be tied to a specific property by showing structures and the address, would meet the evidence threshold for an ordinance such as the one that Clovis employs."
Click HERE to read more...
Manteca ponders new law, $1,000 fine
August 6, 2015
"The Manteca City Council is exploring changes in the municipal ordinance that — if implemented — would target property owners for allowing the discharge of illegal fireworks from land they own whether they occupy it or rent it out.
"Dennis Revell representing T-n-T Fireworks told the council the industry is working on a free app they plan to make available to cities that would allow anyone to download it and record illegal fireworks being shot off and to send them directly to police departments. The videos, if they can be tied to a specific property by showing structures and the address, would meet the evidence threshold for an ordinance such as the one that Clovis employs."
Click HERE to read more...
"The Santa Cruz City Council agreed unanimously Tuesday not to host a July Fourth fireworks display..."
2/10/15 Santa Cruz Sentinel
by JM Brown
"Scott Collins, assistant to the city manager, said police and other department leaders believe a city-sponsored Fourth of July event — considered a way to reduce illegal fireworks in neighborhoods — would drain public safety resources and reduce access to Main Beach."
“We’re at a point where we don’t have resources to bring to bear to have a safe event in the beach area nor can we rely on mutual aid,” Collins said.
2/10/15 Santa Cruz Sentinel
by JM Brown
"Scott Collins, assistant to the city manager, said police and other department leaders believe a city-sponsored Fourth of July event — considered a way to reduce illegal fireworks in neighborhoods — would drain public safety resources and reduce access to Main Beach."
“We’re at a point where we don’t have resources to bring to bear to have a safe event in the beach area nor can we rely on mutual aid,” Collins said.
Salinas council moves to ban ‘safe and sane’ fireworks
Jeff Mitchell, The Salinas Californian 6:20 a.m. PDT July 22, 2015
The Salinas City Council late Tuesday voted to introduce an ordinance which will ban the use of so called “safe and sane” fireworks in the city.
The panel voted 5-2 to approve an ordinance which will repeal the existing city law adopted in 2009.
The move by the body came after a string of Independence Day celebrations — including this most recent holiday — where the city was reduced to a chaotic ‘war zone’ because of the flagrant use of illegal fireworks whose use in many cases was intentionally masked by the use of the ‘safe and sane’ variety.
By banning the use of all kinds of fireworks in Salinas Police Chief Kelly McMillin and Fire Chief Ed Rodriguez said the city’s public safety forces stand a better chance of catching and citing those using the far more dangerous illegal variety.
The council listened to more than an hour of testimony from public speakers pleading with the panel to adopt the ban, saying that the explosive cacophonous mix of the two kinds of fireworks has combined to scare children, frighten animals and unnecessarily disturb military veterans suffering from battlefield post-traumatic stress disorder.
“On July 4 Salinas turns into a lawless place where anarchy rules the day. We cannot allow this to go on any longer,” said Councilwoman Jyl Lutes.
Councilwoman Gloria De La Rosa supported her colleague.
“No more ‘safe and sane’ and no more illegal — no more fireworks period. We’re done. We cannot continue to put our children, our animals and our properties at risk,” she said.
Council members supporting the ban included Lutes, De La Rosa, Mayor Joe Gunter and council members Steve McShane and Kimbley Craig.
Longtime Salinas resident Tony Royal agreed with both council members.
“Please, for heaven’s sake, pass this ordinance. Eliminate all fireworks in the city and do it tonight!” said Royal.
Casting the lone dissenting votes were council members Jose Castañeda and Tony Barrera who each had trouble articulating exactly why they stood opposed to the effort. Castañeda said that before taking the action to ban the ‘safe and sane’ variety that a larger community forum on the issue should first be held.
The council is scheduled on Aug. 18 to conduct a second and final reading and vote of the ordinance.
The council also generally agreed that the city should produce some kind of municipal Independence Day fireworks show and festival at the Salinas Sports Complex. Details on that event were not immediately available.
The Salinas City Council late Tuesday voted to introduce an ordinance which will ban the use of so called “safe and sane” fireworks in the city.
The panel voted 5-2 to approve an ordinance which will repeal the existing city law adopted in 2009.
The move by the body came after a string of Independence Day celebrations — including this most recent holiday — where the city was reduced to a chaotic ‘war zone’ because of the flagrant use of illegal fireworks whose use in many cases was intentionally masked by the use of the ‘safe and sane’ variety.
By banning the use of all kinds of fireworks in Salinas Police Chief Kelly McMillin and Fire Chief Ed Rodriguez said the city’s public safety forces stand a better chance of catching and citing those using the far more dangerous illegal variety.
The council listened to more than an hour of testimony from public speakers pleading with the panel to adopt the ban, saying that the explosive cacophonous mix of the two kinds of fireworks has combined to scare children, frighten animals and unnecessarily disturb military veterans suffering from battlefield post-traumatic stress disorder.
“On July 4 Salinas turns into a lawless place where anarchy rules the day. We cannot allow this to go on any longer,” said Councilwoman Jyl Lutes.
Councilwoman Gloria De La Rosa supported her colleague.
“No more ‘safe and sane’ and no more illegal — no more fireworks period. We’re done. We cannot continue to put our children, our animals and our properties at risk,” she said.
Council members supporting the ban included Lutes, De La Rosa, Mayor Joe Gunter and council members Steve McShane and Kimbley Craig.
Longtime Salinas resident Tony Royal agreed with both council members.
“Please, for heaven’s sake, pass this ordinance. Eliminate all fireworks in the city and do it tonight!” said Royal.
Casting the lone dissenting votes were council members Jose Castañeda and Tony Barrera who each had trouble articulating exactly why they stood opposed to the effort. Castañeda said that before taking the action to ban the ‘safe and sane’ variety that a larger community forum on the issue should first be held.
The council is scheduled on Aug. 18 to conduct a second and final reading and vote of the ordinance.
The council also generally agreed that the city should produce some kind of municipal Independence Day fireworks show and festival at the Salinas Sports Complex. Details on that event were not immediately available.
Declare Your Independence from Toxic Fireworks Pollution
Depending on the effect sought, fireworks produce smoke and dust that contain various heavy metals, sulfur-coal compounds and other noxious chemicals. Barium, for instance, is used to produce brilliant green colors in fireworks displays, despite being poisonous and radioactive. Copper compounds are used to produce blue colors, even though they contain dioxin, which has been linked to cancer. Cadmium, lithium, antimony, rubidium, strontium, lead and potassium nitrate are also commonly used to produce different effects, even though they can cause a host of respiratory and other health problems.
Click HERE to read more
Click HERE to read more
Fireworks - Cheap Thrills with Toxic Consequences
Pollution from Fireworks is an Unnecessary Risk to Our Personal and Environmental Health
How Fireworks Cause Pollution Fireworks contribute to polluting or damaging our planet in various ways throughout their life cycle.
- Manufacturing: Raw materials and energy are used to create the final firework product. Firework ingredients often come from elements that need to be mined from the earth. Mining is not exactly environmentally friendly. Minerals then need to be processed and isolated... often with chemicals. Fireworks use plastic plus paper & cardboard (which kills trees) and are all made at factories that pollute.
- Transportation: Firework components are transported to the firework assembly plant, finished fireworks are transported to their various distribution centers and stores. Transporting may include planes, boats, and trucks. I don't need to tell you the pollution that vehicles cause. And don't forget that the consumer drives to purchase the fireworks, sometimes hundreds of miles to another state to bypass local restrictions.
- Combustion:
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Editorial: Fireworks -- time for the finale
by Joseph B. Heston, KSBW
http://www.ksbw.com/tv/editorials/editorial-fireworks-time-for-the-finale/34106910
July 10, 2015
Last weekend’s Independence Day was filled with daytime fun: parades, picnics, lawn parties, and concerts. But when nighttime fell on the Central Coast, all heck broke loose.
Legal and illegal fireworks here make every July 4th a worrisome night for first responders and for those with terrified pets. Legal and illegal fireworks endanger children. Non-profit groups just seem hooked on the fundraising opportunity of selling so-called "safe and sane" fireworks. It is not a new subject.
Here’s a portion of what we said five years ago: (July 8, 2010)
"It just seems that once and for all it’s time to end the half-hearted, mixed message attempts at making the July 4th celebration safe and sane: fireworks in the hands of amateurs are neither safe nor sane. In places where any fireworks are currently legal, we urge civic leaders to begin taking steps to make all fireworks illegal."
In five long years, nothing has really changed. Rather than schools and other non-profit organizations shaping new fundraising plans, they hold on to the legal fireworks sales like an addict holds on to a fix. This at the same time we are facing a historic drought, where any fireworks could lead to calamity.
For news folks, nighttime on July 4th is filled with dread and foreboding: which year will it be that we lose half a town to a fire? Will this be a year where a child is burned, maimed, or killed?
Now we’re not saying that organized fireworks displays, run by trained professionals, should go away! It’s great to be able to celebrate our nation’s birthday. But for fireworks by amateurs, legal or illegal, it’s time to say goodbye and really crack down.
by Joseph B. Heston, KSBW
http://www.ksbw.com/tv/editorials/editorial-fireworks-time-for-the-finale/34106910
July 10, 2015
Last weekend’s Independence Day was filled with daytime fun: parades, picnics, lawn parties, and concerts. But when nighttime fell on the Central Coast, all heck broke loose.
Legal and illegal fireworks here make every July 4th a worrisome night for first responders and for those with terrified pets. Legal and illegal fireworks endanger children. Non-profit groups just seem hooked on the fundraising opportunity of selling so-called "safe and sane" fireworks. It is not a new subject.
Here’s a portion of what we said five years ago: (July 8, 2010)
"It just seems that once and for all it’s time to end the half-hearted, mixed message attempts at making the July 4th celebration safe and sane: fireworks in the hands of amateurs are neither safe nor sane. In places where any fireworks are currently legal, we urge civic leaders to begin taking steps to make all fireworks illegal."
In five long years, nothing has really changed. Rather than schools and other non-profit organizations shaping new fundraising plans, they hold on to the legal fireworks sales like an addict holds on to a fix. This at the same time we are facing a historic drought, where any fireworks could lead to calamity.
For news folks, nighttime on July 4th is filled with dread and foreboding: which year will it be that we lose half a town to a fire? Will this be a year where a child is burned, maimed, or killed?
Now we’re not saying that organized fireworks displays, run by trained professionals, should go away! It’s great to be able to celebrate our nation’s birthday. But for fireworks by amateurs, legal or illegal, it’s time to say goodbye and really crack down.
County law holds property owners responsible for fireworks displays
By Eric Kurhi
Posted: 06/10/2015 06:06:21 AM PDT
SAN JOSE -- Enablers of do-it-yourself pyrotechnic shows won't even have to light a fuse to get blasted with a fine in rural parts of Santa Clara County, as a new law that goes into effect just in time for fireworks season will hold property owners responsible for illegal displays on their land.
The law, which was passed by supervisors on Tuesday and will return for adoption on June 23, holds accountable not only those caught in the act, but also those who allow it to happen on their land either through active participation or by neglecting to take "reasonable steps" to prevent a repeat problem.
Click HERE to read more
Posted: 06/10/2015 06:06:21 AM PDT
SAN JOSE -- Enablers of do-it-yourself pyrotechnic shows won't even have to light a fuse to get blasted with a fine in rural parts of Santa Clara County, as a new law that goes into effect just in time for fireworks season will hold property owners responsible for illegal displays on their land.
The law, which was passed by supervisors on Tuesday and will return for adoption on June 23, holds accountable not only those caught in the act, but also those who allow it to happen on their land either through active participation or by neglecting to take "reasonable steps" to prevent a repeat problem.
Click HERE to read more