Cal Fire demonstrates how fast a fire can ignite from fireworks, warns residents

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – The countdown is on – starting Saturday, fireworks go on sale. Cal Fire is getting a head start to ensure everyone is safe this holiday weekend, and that starts with education.

“Each year, there’s thousands of fires that are started by illegal fireworks and safe and sane,” said Cal Fire Chief Dustin Hail.

At the FCC First Responders Campus, Cal Fire and the Fresno County Fire Department demonstrated how fast a fire can ignite from both legal and illegal fireworks. The grass was dry and overgrown, so within seconds, it quickly caught fire. Crews were on standby to safely put the fire out. 

Starting this weekend until July 6, Hail says his department will be on high alert for not only vegetation fires but also on the lookout for illegal popping. “We’ll have extra staff on duty, extra law enforcement,” he explained.

Legal fireworks will have the State Fire Marshal’s safe and sane seal. If it does not, they’re considered illegal, and residents who have them may be subject to fines.

“There could be hefty fines ranging from $200 to $2,000, but it could also, depending on the quantity, become a felony charge. And then fines are imposed by the judge,” Hail said.

It also takes crews away from medical emergencies.

“It reduces our response times because now we are spending resources in other areas that truly is avoidable,” Hail shared.

Not only can fireworks be a hazard, but they’re also a pollutant.

“One of the toughest days for folks who live in the valley is July 4,” said Jamie Holt, chief communications officer for the Valley Air District.

Along with the smoke, fireworks also leave behind toxic metals.

“We see the pollution peak around 3 p.m. on the evening of July 4, and then if we have a little bit of a breeze like we do today, it usually is dissipated by the early morning hours. However, if it’s really stagnant, no breeze, it can last into the next day and maybe even linger for 24 hours,” she explained.

Cal Fire recommends that residents leave the popping to the professionals and attend a local fireworks show. The Valley Air District even recommends drone shows; they say there are more than 50 of them that you can find up and down the Valley. A modern way to celebrate this Independence Day.