Escondido, CA – As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, residents and visitors are reminded that all fireworks are illegal to purchase, possess or use in Escondido and throughout San Diego County. That includes firecrackers, cherry bombs, bottle rockets and even sparklers.
“Fireworks are extremely dangerous and their use can easily cause serious injuries and start fires” said Escondido Acting Fire Chief, Tyler Batson. “Please remember that ALL fireworks are illegal in San Diego County, and for good reason. The grass and brush in and around Escondido are extremely dry and vulnerable to ignition sources such as fireworks. Anyone thinking about buying and using illegal fireworks needs to understand that negligently causing a fire can result in severe criminal and financial consequences.”
The City Council has updated the City’s fireworks ordinance to hold property owners and social hosts accountable and establishes up to a $1,000 fine for violations involving illegal fireworks. Enforcement efforts will continue to prioritize community safety through proactive patrols and strict application of the new regulations. Residents are urged to celebrate responsibly and help protect the community from fire and injury risks.
In addition to property damage, fireworks can also cause serious injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of people, including children and teens, are injured every year while using consumer fireworks. Even something as “harmless” as a sparkler, which burns at over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, can cause critical injuries and pose a serious fire hazard. Additionally, the NFPA states that nationally two out of five fires reported on Independence Day are started by fireworks.
The Escondido Fire Department is kicking off its annual Fireworks Collection Campaign this week. Escondido residents can turn in fireworks, no questions asked, from Saturday, June 20 until Sunday, July 5 at any Escondido Fire Station. The purpose of the Fireworks Collection Campaign is to reduce the number of fires and injuries caused by illegal fireworks. For more information, Escondido residents are encouraged to call the Escondido Fire Department at 760-839-5400. Residents of other cities are encouraged to contact their own local Fire Departments for more information about fireworks in their jurisdictions.
The City of Escondido is excited to be hosting a free, professional fireworks show to celebrate Independence Day. The California Center for the Arts is also hosting free activities in Grape Day Park leading up to the fireworks. The community is welcome to enjoy the fireworks show from anywhere in central Escondido including Grape Day Park. The fireworks will be launched from their typical location in the Woodward Avenue parking lot at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. Grape Day Park will be open past dusk with traditional regulations in place – no dogs, BBQs, or alcohol. Learn more about the Independence Day celebration at 61st Annual 4th of July – California Center for the Arts, Escondido.
