Escondido, CA – As the 4th 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.
“It is unfortunate that due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the County prohibition against gatherings, most professional public fireworks shows in the County, including the one normally held in Escondido, have been canceled.” said Escondido Fire Chief, Rick Vogt. “However, everyone needs to remember that ALL fireworks are illegal in San Diego County, and for good reason. Considering the dry grass and brush in and around Escondido, anyone thinking about buying and using illegal fireworks needs to understand the negligently causing a fire can result in criminal and financial consequences.”
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 27 until Monday, July 6 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.
Although we can’t gather together, there are many other safe ways to celebrate our nation’s birthday with your household members such as BBQing at home, visiting a park or beach, or participating in the California Center for the Arts, Escondido’s virtual “Independence Day at home” festivities at the following link: https://artcenter.org/event/independence-day-at-home-a-full-day-of-4th-of-july- celebrations/.
