This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Riverside County fire officials issue fireworks warning to residents
Fire officials throughout California are discouraging people from lighting their own fireworks this Independence Day. Riverside County allows “Safe and sane” fireworks like ground spinners in only a handful of communities. County fire Chief John Hawkins says that anywhere else, they’re illegal.
HAWKINS: “Within Riverside County safe and sane fireworks are allowed only in the incorporated cities of Blythe, Coachella, Indio, Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs. All of the rest of the county any fireworks, they are prohibited. Yeah, fireworks are fun for some people. But fireworks are dangerous. Fireworks injury people and they cause fires.”
Riverside County officials blame illegal 4th of July fireworks for sparking more than half a dozen fires last year. Violators of the firework ban can face fines and jail time.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
