SAN BERNARDINO – Thousands of pounds of dangerous and illegal fireworks were confiscated by the San Bernardino County Fire Department (SBCoFD) in recent weeks.
Fire officials said that over 33,000 pounds of these fireworks were confiscated through a multi-agency task force led by the San Bernardino County Fire Department’s Fire Investigations Unit. “San Bernardino County has a zero tolerance policy for bringing any and all illegal fireworks into our communities. Anyone attempting to smuggle these dangerous explosives into the county will face a minimum $1,250 fine and a misdemeanor or felony charge with the possibility of arrest,” Fire Marshal Mike Horton said. Wildfire season has begun and as most residents know, these fires spread fast, destroying sometimes tens of thousands of acres. These firework laws are set in order to protect public health and safety.
Multiple agencies, which include the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Arson/Bomb Squad who use K9’s trained to sniff out explosives. The confiscated fireworks are picked up by the State Fire Marshal’s office, who safely destroys them. Citations will continue to be issued for the illegal use, possession, storage of illegal fireworks, and for those who have these stored on their property. “All fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or move along the ground are termed dangerous and are illegal anywhere in California,” SBCoFD officials said. “Safe and Sane” fireworks bare the State Fire Marshal seal on the packaging and are only allowed in the following cities: Adelanto, Barstow, Chino, Colton, and Rialto, as well as specific locations in Fontana, Grand Terrace, and San Bernardino. All fireworks are illegal elsewhere in the county.”
The fire department is available to answer any questions anyone has. Residents can report illegal fireworks to local authorities or to WeTip at 1-800-47-ARSON or WeTip.com.
