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Fireworks Prohibited. . .Zero Tolerance

No Fireworks Allowed in National Forest

By Michael P. Neufeld
Saturday, July 4, 2009

San Bernardino Mountains – Fireworks are prohibited in San Bernardino National Forest and officials will be enforcing that ban over the Fourth of July weekend.

In fact, possession of any type of fireworks, including "safe and sane" fireworks, is against the law in any unincorporated area of San Bernardino County.

It is against the law to possess or discharge fireworks, even safe and sane varieties, in the San Bernardino National Forest and unincorporated areas of the county. (Photo by intothewoods29/Wikimedia Commons.)

Fire and law enforcement personnel will confiscate any fireworks and issue citations. In the event a fire occurs due to the unsafe use of fireworks, the responsible persons are likely to face criminal charges and be held liable for damages.

"Safe and sane" fireworks are only allowed in the cities of Adelanto, Chino, Colton (specific areas only, contact (909) 370-5100), Fontana (city area only), Grand Terrace, Rialto and San Bernardino (specific areas only, contact (909) 884-7248). All fireworks are illegal elsewhere in the county. Virtually all fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or move along the ground are termed dangerous and are illegal anywhere in California.

Signs warning residents and visitors of the total ban on fireworks in the mountain communities are posted on key highways leading to the San Bernardino National Forest. (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

With San Bernardino County facing a dangerous wildland fire season, the County Fire Department has increased its vigilance in enforcing state and county fireworks laws to protect public health and safety.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, on a typical 4th of July, fireworks cause more fires in the U.S. than all other causes combined. While "safe and sane" fireworks are allowed in some San Bernardino County communities, the County Board of Supervisors and County Fire encourage residents to watch fireworks at community celebrations rather than use their own.

When using fireworks where allowed, County Fire offers some safety tips:

• Always use fireworks ("safe and sane" only) with an adult present
• Always read and follow label directions
• Always have water (garden hose/bucket) and a fire extinguisher within arm's reach
• Always place fireworks on a firm, non-combustible surface, like a sidewalk or pavement
• Never alter fireworks
• Never re-light "dud" fireworks
• Homemade fireworks are often deadly; leave the making of fireworks to the experts
• Never point, throw or mishandle fireworks
• Even a "safe and sane" sparkler burns at a temperature that ignites clothing easily.

In addition to fires, fireworks cause deaths, blindness, and maiming injuries to children and adults every year.

For more information on fireworks safety, contact your local fire department.

This article was first published on Sunday, June 21, 2009 at 6:58 pm. This article has been viewed 1511 times.

Michael P. Neufeld, Senior News Editor, is a graduate of the Dwight Bentel School of Journalism at San Jose State University. His first job out of San Jose State was with the Associated Press in Los Angeles as overnight Radio Editor. Prior to joining RIMOFTHEWORLD.net, Neufeld was editor of two weekly newspapers—THE MOUNTAIN NEWS and CRESTLINE COURIER-NEWS. He also has experience as editor of an employee newspaper for a major utility company and during his tenure as executive director of the San Jose State University Alumni Association served as faculty advisor to the association's monthly newsletter. He also spent eight years in commercial radio doing everything from news to advertising sales and writing commercials to being an announcer and on-air personality. Neufeld is actively involved the mountain communities including serving as master of ceremonies for the Arrowhead Arts Music Festival held each summer.

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of RIMOFTHEWORLD.net. This column is copyrighted by Michael P. Neufeld.