San Luis Obispo County experienced two fireworks related fires this past week. The County Fire Department (CAL FIRE) would like to remind everyone that all fireworks and sky lanterns are banned by ordinance and are illegal to use, sell, or possess in San Luis Obispo County. There is zero tolerance for the use of fireworks, and violation may result in a misdemeanor citation including a $2,000 fine. If found to have caused a fire the user may be charged with criminal negligence and the cost of suppressing the fire, which can run in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The reality is, all fireworks have the potential to cause a wildfire even California approved safe and sane fireworks like sparklers, fountains and smoke bombs can cause an ignition. With the potential of significant fire activity throughout the State this year due to an abundant grass crop, everyone is urged to avoid any activity that could spark an unwanted fire.
For additional fire safety information, please visit http://www.readyforwildfire.org/One-LessSpark- Campaign/