Fire, air officials issue fireworks danger warning in Merced

Fire officials are advising people take extra caution when using fireworks this Fourth of July as they create additional hazard in years of drought.

Although fireworks are a symbolic display of patriotism, they can be dangerous when handled incorrectly or used in the wrong environment, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

“As we head into the fourth summer of a severe drought, it is more important than ever that everyone use an abundance of caution to avoid sparking a fire,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of Cal Fire. “Here in California we have a zero tolerance for the use and sale of illegal fireworks.”

There are also legal ramifications when it comes to illegal fireworks such as skyrockets, bottle rockets, Roman candles and aerial shells. Firecrackers that explode, go into the air or move on the ground in an uncontrolled manner can lead to a possible fine of up to $50,000 as well as prison time or jail for up to one year, authorities said.

Even “safe and sane” fireworks taken into an area where they are banned are considered illegal.

In Mariposa County, for example, fireworks of any kind are illegal. The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Department said fireworks of any kind will not be tolerated.

Fireworks are also prohibited anywhere within the Sierra and Stanislaus national forests.

According to state fire officials, 300 fires were sparked by fireworks last year.

Earlier this week a Merced firefighter’s home was damaged in a fire sparked by smoldering fireworks improperly disposed of in a garbage can at a neighbor’s home, officials said.

“‘Safe and sane’ are only as safe as they are used,” said state Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover in a news release. “We want everyone to enjoy their celebrations in a safe and legal manner.”

Officials ask the public to only purchase fireworks from legitimate organizations authorized to sell; that they have a bucket of water, sand or garden hose available at the firing site; and to never alter or modify fireworks.

Air district officials ask that Valley residents attend a professional Independence Day event instead of setting off their own fireworks.

Fireworks increase levels of soot, ash and metals in the air, which cause serious health problems, especially to people with respiratory conditions, elderly people and small children, authorities said.

Fine particulate matter can invade the bloodstream and has been linked to heart attacks and stroke, officials said in a news release.

“Each year, people suffer serious health consequences from direct exposure in the neighborhoods where they live and breathe … from fireworks activities that are entirely preventable,” said Seyed Sadredin, the district’s executive director and air pollution control officer.

Air quality in the Valley during the summer is already burdened by ozone pollution, and fireworks emissions add to what already may be poor air quality, officials said. Air monitors throughout the Valley reflect spikes in pollution every year following Fourth of July fireworks displays.

This story was originally published July 2, 2015 at 3:23 PM with the headline "Fire, air officials issue fireworks danger warning in Merced."