Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
With the goal of preventing wildfires and injuries resulting from Fourth of July celebrations, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors is continuing the “If You Light it, We’ll Write it” illegal fireworks enforcement activity and education campaign.
“It’s critical that everyone understands that illegal fireworks are just that – illegal,” said Board Chair Kevin Jeffries, First District Supervisor. “These fireworks have serious costs to homes, hillsides and pets. Now there are also serious costs to the individuals transporting or setting them off.”
Enforcement activity targets the sale, transportation, and use of illegal fireworks – with fines ranging up to $5,000. In recent years, the increasing number of displays of dangerously illegal fireworks and explosives prompted calls countywide to stop this dangerous activity.
The public education portion of the campaign launches today and runs through the Fourth of July holiday, will focus on delivering critical messages to the public through multiple mediums, including road signs, social media graphics, and public service announcements.
Key county departments in this effort, include the Sheriff’s Department, County Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Department of Animal Services, Veterans Services, and Riverside University Health System.
“Illegal fireworks are dangerous and cause serious injuries – sometimes fatal injuries,” said Riverside County Fire Chief Bill Weiser. “The fires ignited by the ember and remains of these fireworks damage property and cause devastating wildland fires. Across the county, great efforts are made to provide safe and enjoyable public fireworks shows. Please visit www.rvcfire.org to find a safe, professional and public fireworks show near you.”
By local ordinance, California-approved “safe and sane” fireworks are only permitted within the city limits of Indio, Coachella, Blythe, and Desert Hot Springs.
Residents can report illegal fireworks on Riverside County Sheriff’s app, website or by calling their non-emergency toll-free number at (800) 950-2444.
