SMC's 1st Fireworks Buyback Event Nets 400 Pounds

REDWOOD CITY, CA — The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office hosted its first-ever buyback event for illegal fireworks over the weekend, collecting 400 pounds over five hours on Sunday. As part of an effort to curtail illicit fireworks over the upcoming July 4 holiday, the event offered residents a way to surrender devices with no questions asked, for cash payments up to $75.

Fireworks are illegal in all unincorporated parts of San Mateo County, and most jurisdictions, along with county and state parks and the Crystal Springs watershed. Violators can face fines up to $2,000 and be held liable for emergency response costs.

The items collected Sunday included illegal and potentially deadly devices, including M-80s, aerial rockets and military-grade smoke grenades.

"Our community members have shared countless stories with me about how illegal fireworks activity on and around July 4th impacts them by threatening their sense of safety and diminishing their quality of life," said San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus. "I want to reassure those we serve that the Sheriff's Office hears your concerns and is taking action."

According to federal estimates, approximately 11,500 people were injured by fireworks across the United States in 2021, with the vast majority of injuries occurring around Independence Day. Fireworks are also one of the leading causes of runaway pets and can cause distress for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

"When you light that firework, you get a momentary pop but the damage can last a lifetime," said Mike Callagy, SMC's chief executive officer. "Every year dogs and cats run away and never return home, children are burned and homes and entire forests go up in flames. We ask that everyone stop and think about the consequences of their actions."

Residents can report illegal fireworks use to the sheriff's office via the non-emergency number at 650-363-4911.