Firework stands across Tulare County are preparing to open as Fourth of July quickly approaches.
California State Fire Marshal-approved fireworks are only allowed to be used between June 28 and July 4, according to Tulare County Fire Department officials. Additionally, fireworks are not allowed to be used any time outside of that timeframe, and are prohibited within the foothills and mountain communities.
Safe and Sane fireworks are sold at authorized booths.
In Visalia, 25 permitted fireworks booths are run by nonprofit organizations that meet specific guidelines. To find a list of approved fireworks booths, visit the city’s website.
“Independence Day is an opportunity to celebrate our nation’s freedom,” Visalia Fire Chief Dan Griswold said. “I ask that Visalians commit to celebrating the Fourth of July safely.”
Griswold added that using illegal fireworks is a “high-risk activity” that can cause property damage, injury and even death.
What are illegal fireworks?
Illegal fireworks are defined as anything launched into the air, explodes, or items such as firecrackers. California has “zero tolerance” for the sale and use of illegal fireworks, which include the following:
Tulare County residents caught with illegal fireworks face fines for using, possessing, storing or selling illegal fireworks. In Visalia, illegal fireworks carry fines starting at $2,000 for the first offense.
To report the use of illegal fireworks in Visalia, call (559) 513-8080. To report the use of illegal fireworks in Tulare County, call (559) 733-6218.
How to dispose of illegal fireworks in Visalia
Visalia Fire Department officials have urged the public to dispose of illegal fireworks year-round. Illegal fireworks can be turned in at the following locations:
Drop-offs are accepted between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily.
Firework safety tips
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This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Stay safe this Fourth of July using guidelines from Tulare County firefighters
Reporting by Sheyanne N Romero, Visalia Times-Delta / Visalia Times-Delta
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Sheyanne N Romero, Visalia Times-Delta | USA TODAY Network
