Fire officials hope public celebrate New Year’s free of fireworks

HUMBOLDT COUNTY, Calif. (KIEM)-local fire officials ask New Year’s Eve revelers who plan to celebrate using fireworks – to follow all California laws and safety precautions.

Officials hope community members use other ways to bring in the new year such as glow sticks, silly string or noise makers.

Those who opt to use them must only use “Safe & Sane” fireworks and should follow these safety tips.

Don’t alter fireworks, use them as instructed in a safe area, have water and an extinguisher nearby and dispose them properly.

Don’t try to reignite fireworks that fail to light or malfunction – doing so, could cause serious injuries.

Fireworks can only be purchased, legally, from June 28th to July 6th.

Cal fire’s Battalion Chief Paul Savano says, despite the recent rains, fireworks cause fires if used incorrectly.

“So, you are not going to be able to go to the store in California and by them, and anything you bring from out-of-state would be illegal,” said Savano.  “It is damp outside, but there is still is an opportunity to start fires.

“We do have issues with Ariel fireworks igniting structures,” he said. “That’s why those garden variety are the illegal.”

Fire officials ask that fireworks be thrown away in metal trash receptacle and soaked with water before placing them in a dumpster.