San Jose Standard

As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, we need your help to keep our community safe and prevent injuries and fires caused by illegal fireworks. If you see illegal firework activity:

1. Snap: Take a photo or video of the person using illegal fireworks if you can safely do so
2. Click: Visit www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks or visit the 3-1-1 website or mobile app on your smartphone
3. Report: Complete the online report in as much detail as possible to assist the City of San José with taking enforcement action

All fireworks, even those labeled ‘safe and sane,’ are dangerous and illegal to own, sell or use in San José. Fines for using illegal fireworks begin at $1,000 and the sale of fireworks can cost up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on the quantity. Under San José’s Social Host Ordinance, property owners and individuals hosting gatherings where illegal fireworks are used will be held responsible for emergency response costs resulting from the use of illegal fireworks. Additionally, individuals who are knowingly attending and watching an illegal fireworks display are subject to a fine. It’s not worth it!

Over the last three Independence Day holidays, there were approximately 150 fireworks-related fires in San José, including 64 in 2022 alone. Each of these fires caused property damage, environmental damage, and were 100% preventable. The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks start over 19,000 fires per year. In 2021, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,500 people for fireworks-related injuries and at least nine people lost their lives.

Please help avoid injuries and damage caused by illegal fireworks use this Fourth of July. A social media toolkit containing graphics and sample safety messages is also available on the City’s fireworks webpage for those who would like to help spread the word that fireworks are dangerous and illegal.

As always, if you observe an active fire or a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.

Original source can be found here.