The City of Stockton recently announced it will be holding free fireworks safety demonstrations later this month.
“Knowing the safety components of fireworks is imperative to having an enjoyable and safe Fourth of July holiday,” David Scott, a public information officer with the Stockton Police Department said. “These demonstrations will provide the community the educational aspect of being safe while enjoying fireworks with friends and family.”
The sessions will be held at the following community centers from 6:30-7 p.m. on June 23-26.
- Monday, June 23: Stribley Community Center, 1760 East Sonora Street
- Tuesday, June 24: Arnold Rue Community Center, 5758 Lorraine Avenue
- Wednesday, June 25: Seifert Community Center, 128 West Benjamin Holt Drive
- Thursday, June 26: Van Buskirk Community Center, 734 Houston Avenue
The 30-minute sessions will cover the proper handling and disposal of “safe and sane” fireworks, reporting illegal fireworks and firework danger. Demonstrators include Stockton Fire Department, Stockton Police, and San Joaquin County Fireworks Taskforce.
“Safe and Sane fireworks allow you to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday with fireworks, but remain safe and responsible,” Scott said.
Safe fireworks are the only type allowed in Stockton. They fall under a category of fireworks that do not shoot into the air or leave the ground. Fireworks in this category have the state fire marshal’s safe and sane seal.
Safe fireworks use is only permitted on June 28 from noon to 11 p.m., and June 29 to July 4 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Penalties for illegal firework use include paying fines ($1,000-$3,000) and covering response costs. For more information on fireworks, read the Social Host and Penalties Ordinance Update.
“Fireworks can cause bodily injury to community members and significant damage to property, including structure fires,” Scott said.
Fireworks proved to be an issue last September when an illegal fireworks show at Mattie Harrell Park caused three trees to catch fire. At the time, concerned residents alerted authorities and posted to social media. Fortunately, no homes or vehicles were damaged.
To report illegal fireworks, Stockton Police Departments asks residents to call their non-emergency number at (209) 937-8377. According to Scott, teams will be patrolling before, during and after the holiday to ensure rules are followed.
