Fireworks Safety in Santa Monica

City of Santa Monica NEWS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:            June 26, 2012

As the July 4 holiday approaches, the Santa Monica Fire and Police Departments remind everyone that ALL types of fireworks are illegal in the City of Santa Monica. This includes so-called “safe and sane” fireworks, which may not be used in Santa Monica EVEN IF they are legal in the city in which they are purchased. The public is urged to avoid the use of consumer fireworks and instead, to enjoy displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals.

• In 2010, fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 reported fires, including 1,100 total structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 14,100 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 60 civilian injuries and $36 million in direct property damage.
• In 2010, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,600 people for fireworks related injuries; 57% of 2010 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 37% were to the head.
• The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 5-14, with more than twice the risk for the general population.
• On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.

City of Santa Monica News Release
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