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2018 Fireworks Safety and Where to Find Legal Fireworks

Editor's Note: Reprinted article we publish every year to remind everyone to have a safe July 4th.

By Sharon Rosenthal, www.camarillo.macaronikid.com July 2, 2018

Using consumer fireworks on our nation's birthday is as American as apple pie, backyard barbecues and parades on Main Street. But did you know that is illegal to shoot off fireworks in Camarillo, Oxnard and Ventura and other areas in Ventura County but not in the City of Fillmore?  

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Fireworks of all kinds are ILLEGAL in Camarillo, Ventura, Moorpark, Santa Paula, Ojai, Port Hueneme, Oxnard, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and the unincorporated areas of Ventura County. Anyone found in possession of fireworks or caught using them could be heavily fined and/or receive a jail term of up to a year. 

FILLMORE ONLY

The Fillmore Police and Fire Departments want to ensure the citizens of Fillmore enjoy a safe Fourth of July week. Citizens are reminded that Safe and Sane fireworks sold in Fillmore are legal in Fillmore between June 28, 2018 at 12 PM through July 5, 2018 at 12 PM. (source)

The use of any non-approved fireworks that explode or launch into the air are illegal and will result in criminal charges and/or a $1,000 fine. If you witness any illegal activity, please report it. Please call the Fillmore Police Department at 805-524-2233 to report illegal activity. 

Below are several safety tips to ensure you and your family enjoy a safe Independence Day celebration. 

• If you witness a crime or fire in progress involving illegal fireworks, call your local authorities by dialing 9-1-1.

• Only Safe and Sane fireworks bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal are legal in the city of Fillmore. All other fireworks, including altered Safe and Sane fireworks and those that explode or leave the ground are illegal.

 • Children should not play with fireworks. Fireworks are intended for use by adults in open spaces. 

• Always have a bucket of water on hand to dispose of fireworks and a hose connected to water available in case of fire. Do not dispose of fireworks in trash containers. 

• Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns and can cause blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. Teach your children “stop, drop and roll” in the event their clothing catches fire, and make sure they know how to call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency. 

Find Fillmore Fireworks Here

To report fireworks:

  • Oxnard (805) 331-1490, or send an email to fireworks@oxnardpd.org
  • Pt Hueneme fireworks@cityofporthueneme.org or call (805) 986- 6539
  • Camarillo Patrol Station (805) 388-5100
  • East County Patrol Station (805) 494-8260
  • Ventura Headquarters Station (805) 654-2304
  • Moorpark Patrol Station (805) 532-2700
  • Ojai Patrol Station (805) 646-1414

Police ask people reporting fireworks include the address of where the fireworks are and the name of the person using the fireworks, if available.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries to consumers can be greatly reduced this season:

  • Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
  • Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
  • Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
  • Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.
  • Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting.
  • Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
  • Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.
  • Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
  • Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you!
  • Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

And note these special safety tips, if using sparklers:

  • Always remain standing while using sparklers.
  • Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
  • Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time.
  • Never throw sparklers.
  • Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop spent sparklers in a bucket of water.
  • Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run, while holding sparklers.

For a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips 

KEEP PET'S SAFE TOO!

Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is bracing for what is sure to be one of their busiest weekends of the year. Each year, during the days surrounding 4th of July, hundreds of pets become frightened by fireworks and run away from their homes and yards. These pets, lost and confused, often end up at VCAS’ animal adoption centers in Camarillo and Simi Valley.

“The sights, sounds and smells of fireworks can be terrifying for some pets,” said Tara Diller, VCAS Director. “By following some very simple safety tips, people can keep their animals safe and secure while they enjoy 4th of July festivities.”

Pet Safety Tips:
  1. Do not take your pet to fireworks displays. 
  2. Do not leave your pet alone in the car - Pets can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short minutes when left in a hot car. Unfortunately, partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they can provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
  3. Make sure your pets are properly licensed and wearing identification tags, so that if they become lost, they can be returned promptly. Make sure that tags have current phone numbers and VCAS has current owner contact information on file.
  4. Get your pet microchipped or, if it already is, make sure the microchip company has your current contact information.
  5. Animals found running at-large should be taken to a VCAS animal adoption center, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners. 
  6. Keep your pets in a comfortable and quiet area during Fourth of July festivities. If your pet is crate trained, then their crate is a great choice.
  7. Be sure that you remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company if you won't be home.
  8. If your pet seeks comfort in a bath tub, under a bed or other small space, let them. Do not try to lure them out. If the space is safe and it makes them feel more secure, leave them there.
  9. Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
  10. If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder or fireworks, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays. 
For more info visit VCAS’ website: www.vcas.us