CAL FIRE NEWS RELEASE

CAL FIRE NEWS RELEASE

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

Amador-El Dorado Unit

 

CONTACT: Brice Bennett PIO

530-683-5229

RELEASE DATE:  June 29, 2015

 

Safely Celebrating the 4th of July

Camino – CAL FIRE encourages everyone in the foothills to celebrate this Independence Day by attending one of your fireworks displays. Fireworks are illegal in El Dorado and Amador counties and only “safe and sane” fireworks are permitted within Amador City limits.

– Friday July 3rd, El Dorado Hills Town Center, El Dorado Hills from 7-9:30pm

– Saturday July 4th, El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Placerville 4pm

– Saturday July 4th, South Lake Tahoe 9:45pm

CAL FIRE wants to stress to the public that California has a zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include any that explode, go into the air or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner, as well as safe and sane fireworks in an area they are not permitted. If convicted a violator could be fined up to $50,000 as well as sent to Jail for up to one year.

California is in it’s 4th year of an unprecedented drought. The grass, brush and trees are incredibly dry. Even the smallest spark from a firework can cause a wildfire. As a reminder, just last year the Monticello Fire near Lake Berryessa in Yolo County burned 6,488 acres, caused 5 injuries and was started by fireworks on the 4th of July.

“We hope residents of Amador and El Dorado counties celebrate the 4th of July with family and friends responsibly. If you spark a wildfire using illegal fireworks, you can be held liable for damages. The risk is just not worth it, especially when we have several excellent fireworks displays for everyone to enjoy locally.”- Mike Kaslin Unit Chief Amador- El Dorado CAL FIRE