SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Fireworks, fires and gunshots kept the Sacramento region's police and fire departments busy on the 4th of July.
Despite the numerous warnings from local and state firefighters, people launched fireworks Thursday night. Fire crews responded to many fires in neighborhoods and fields.
Here's a look at what different agencies had to deal with:
- Fairfield: 151 fireworks calls, 24 fire calls. The Fairfield Police Department said dispatch received 494 calls in an 8-hour time frame, about what they usually get in a normal day
- Live Oak: Sutter County Sheriff's Deputies issued 11 citations for illegal fireworks and arrested one person for a homemade explosive.
- Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District: 1,465 calls to 911 which is 45% more than in 2023.
- Woodland: Police gave out about 30 citations for illegal fireworks
- Turlock: Fire crews were dispatched to 316 calls in 24 hours
We'll be adding more to this list, so check back for updates.
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Sacramento Metro Fire Department officials encouraged anyone just complaining about noise not to call their emergency or nonemergency lines unless you have a specific address for them to respond to since they need to catch someone in the act of using fireworks.
Fireworks bearing the official State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal are legal in Sacramento County, but beware of counterfeits. They're the fireworks that typically don't lift off the ground.
Due to the high temperatures and increased fire danger, many fire officials urge residents to use good judgement when lighting fireworks. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while using legal fireworks:
- Always have a responsible adult present when using fireworks
- Fireworks that explode, go up in the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner are dangerous and illegal
- Read and follow all instructions and warnings on fireworks before use
- Stay alert! Don’t use alcohol or other drugs when lighting fireworks
- Fireworks should be used on flat level ground. Do not place fireworks on ladders or make-shift elevated platforms
- Keep a bucket of water and a hose close by when using fireworks
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse
- Keep a safe distance from the firework once its been ignited. Do not attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks
- Completely submerge expended fireworks in a non-combustible container (such as a metal bucket) for 24-hours before discarding them
- Keep the non-combustible container a safe distance away from structures, fences, overhangs, and canopies while fireworks soak
