The Redwood City Council has called on its citizens to avoid the use of fireworks and thus become subject to fines of up to $50,000, jail time and serious personal injury to themselves and others who may be hit by one of the devices.
And, he said, like other cities across the state, Redwood City has increasingly seen commercial-grade fireworks being transported and used illegally.
These, he clarified, are not “safe and sensible” flares or fireworks: they are intended to be set off by licensed operators for public display.
The most recent fireworks-related arrest was a felony because of the power of the devices.
Thus, the use of all fireworks by persons not licensed to display fireworks is illegal in the City of Redwood City, as it is in most communities on the Peninsula.
"Fireworks are dangerous and can cause fires and injuries that are easily preventable. Additionally, fireworks cause unnecessary anxiety and fear to people and pets in our community," the city said in a statement.
In that regard, Fire Chief Ray Iverson reminded that this time of year can be particularly challenging with illegal fireworks. “The best way to prevent an injury is to leave fireworks to the professionals and not try to light them in the first place. Even sparklers burn at temperatures that can melt metal.”
The call was made amid a severe drought in the state, which is causing an increase in forest fires.
To report illegal fireworks, authorities have asked that you call the Redwood City Police Department's non-emergency line at (650) 780-7118 at the time of the incident and provide specific addresses or identifying information to assist responding officers.
In addition to the City Administrative Citation Fines – up to $1,000 – someone who violates the State Fireworks Law can be fined and jailed. Under the California Health and Safety Code, penalties for violating the State Fireworks Law can range from fines of $500 to $50,000, and violators can also be incarcerated in the county jail.
For more information on the City's Social Host Ordinance related to fireworks, interested parties can visit the website www.RedwoodCity.org/NoFireworks.
The city council also said that in recent weeks, there have been incidents of large crowds of young cyclists visiting the city centre, mainly near Courthouse Square, where while many obey the law, there have been incidents of traffic violations, property damage and illegal use of fireworks.
Redwood City said it is enforcing laws to keep residents and youth safe and downtown attractive and thriving, taking a comprehensive approach to making the heart of the city a safe and fun place for everyone.
“We know that safety is Job 1, and we are working with our police and fire departments to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who visits our downtown and the businesses that make it thrive,” said Mayor Giselle Hale.
He added that efforts are also being made to address youth behavioral issues through community partners such as the Redwood City Police Activities League (PAL) and Redwood City Together to keep kids out of trouble.
You may be interested in: Redwood City joins the "March for Our Lives" rally
