If you buy fireworks for Independence Day, avoid turning a moment of fun into a costly experience this Independence Day by purchasing “Safe and Sane” fireworks from authorized retail stands in Rohnert Park. Otherwise, the use of illegal fireworks—any that fly up into the air—could result in a fine of $1,000 or more, or even arrest.
In 2010, local authorities issued citations amounting to $7,000 because of illegal fireworks, according to Rohnert Park Fire Marshal Dan Adam. There were also a few small fires last year, but no serious damage or injuries.
There will be extra police and fire patrols out in local neighborhoods to watch for illegal fireworks, said Adam. As during most years, it is expected there will be a lot of residents and parties out on the street and he encourages people to enjoy their neighborhood and asks people not to block roadways so safety vehicles can get through when necessary. “Unless we see something completely unsafe, we just allow people to enjoy it.”
Illegal fireworks will be confiscated, but it is at the discretion of the public safety officer on whether each incident warrants tickets, fines, or even arrest depending upon the circumstances.
“People don’t like the illegals (fireworks) in their front yard anymore,” said Adam. The overall use of illegal fireworks in Rohnert Park, he added, “It has gone down, but it’s not gone.” He credits the potential of a $1,000 fine as a successful deterrent.
If you do witness people using illegal fireworks, you are asked to call the Department of Public Safety.
When speaking with fire marshals in other cities where fireworks have been banned and programs have been introduced to enforce local ordinances, the use of illegal fireworks hasn’t dropped significantly and still creates safety issues in those cities. “We’re not for or against fireworks, but if we banned it, it wouldn’t necessarily eliminate our illegal fireworks problem.”
“Hopefully, it’s a good year and it’s not too hot,” he said. “Just use good judgment.”
In 2010, local authorities issued citations amounting to $7,000 because of illegal fireworks, according to Rohnert Park Fire Marshal Dan Adam. There were also a few small fires last year, but no serious damage or injuries.
There will be extra police and fire patrols out in local neighborhoods to watch for illegal fireworks, said Adam. As during most years, it is expected there will be a lot of residents and parties out on the street and he encourages people to enjoy their neighborhood and asks people not to block roadways so safety vehicles can get through when necessary. “Unless we see something completely unsafe, we just allow people to enjoy it.”
Illegal fireworks will be confiscated, but it is at the discretion of the public safety officer on whether each incident warrants tickets, fines, or even arrest depending upon the circumstances.
If you do witness people using illegal fireworks, you are asked to call the Department of Public Safety.
When speaking with fire marshals in other cities where fireworks have been banned and programs have been introduced to enforce local ordinances, the use of illegal fireworks hasn’t dropped significantly and still creates safety issues in those cities. “We’re not for or against fireworks, but if we banned it, it wouldn’t necessarily eliminate our illegal fireworks problem.”
“Hopefully, it’s a good year and it’s not too hot,” he said. “Just use good judgment.”
