SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA – Fire agencies representing all of Santa Clara County are urging the community to leave the fireworks to the professionals to avoid injury and fire as the 4th of July approaches. Nationally, illegal fireworks cause over 10,000 emergency room treated injuries each year. Community members are encouraged to attend professional fireworks displays hosted throughout Santa Clara County this 4th of July.
“The 4th of July is one of the holidays where traditionally we spend time with family and friends, but it is also a holiday where, unfortunately, we see our family and friends go to the hospital because of firework-related injuries,” explains Mountain View Fire Chief Juan Diaz. “This year, as in previous years, the Mountain View Shoreline Amphitheatre will offer a large display of professional fireworks. Come down to our beautiful Shoreline Amphitheatre and let the fireworks be handled by professionals.”
Santa Clara County Fire Chief Suwanna Kerdkaew weighs in on how the recent weather has affected the potential for dangerous fires this holiday season. “The record rainfall has helped the grass and brush grow in dramatic amounts,” Chief Kerdkaew explains, “As summer heats up and the vegetation quickly dries, the high fire hazard conditions can create a potentially dangerous or deadly situation with only one spark from firework activity.”
CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit Chief George Huang explains the inherent wildfire risk.
“Each year serious injuries and millions of dollars in property loss occur from wildfires sparked by fireworks. Large grass crops and dry vegetation increase the threat for devastating fires throughout all of California. It is imperative that we as a community be vigilant and take all precautions necessary to make this a safe 4th of July and fire year.”
When it comes to illegal fireworks, the risk does not outweigh the reward. “It is imperative to recognize and understand the true danger of illegal fireworks,” explains Gilroy Fire Chief Jim Wyatt. “Every year, we see people seriously and permanently injured because they underestimate the power of these fireworks.”
Milpitas Fire Department Deputy Chief Arthur Belton adds, “Illegal fireworks carry a trifecta of risks: physical injury, fire loss, and monetary liability. A split second of excitement can lead to life-altering injuries, destroy homes and possessions, and leave you facing substantial financial burdens. Choose safety over recklessness and leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals.”
“It is imperative that the community know the risks involved in using illegal fireworks, so injuries and tragedies can be prevented,” said Santa Clara Fire Chief Ruben Torres. “The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch the professional displays.”
San José Fire Chief Robert Sapien, Jr. makes clear, “Fireworks are illegal in San José and most of Santa Clara County because of the danger they present to our communities. The unintended consequences of illegal fireworks can be devastating and it is important to keep yourself and others out of harm’s way. We strongly encourage everyone to attend sanctioned fireworks shows to celebrate the holiday safely.”
Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety Chief Phan S. Ngo reminds everyone, “Illegal fireworks are a significant and dangerous source of fires and cause numerous injuries every year. Using illegal fireworks, particularly during the dry summer months, dramatically increases the chances of fire outbreaks. Instead, I encourage everyone to celebrate the 4th of July by attending one of the many planned professional fireworks displays.”
While we know the excitement fireworks can bring, we need to recognize the danger they pose. Palo Alto Fire Chief Geo Blackshire elaborates, “Fireworks are a traditional part of many July 4th celebrations. But it is crucial to understand the significant risks illegal fireworks pose to our community, endangering lives, property, and our environment. The use of illegal fireworks not only violates the law but also puts your loved ones and neighbors at unnecessary risk.”
Community members are urged to stay safe this 4th of July by leaving the fireworks to the professionals. Several professional fireworks displays are planned on July 4th including the following:
- Cupertino – Creekside Park at 10455 Miller Ave. – 9:30 p.m.
- Gilroy – Gilroy High School at 750 W. 10th St. – 9:30 p.m.
- Milpitas – Milpitas Sports Center at 1325 E. Calaveras Blvd. – 9:30 p.m.
- Morgan Hill – Morgan Hill Sports Center at 16500 Condit Rd. – 9:30 p.m.
- Mountain View – Shoreline Amphitheater at One Amphitheater Pkwy – 8:00 p.m.
- San Jose – Almaden Lake Park at 6099 Winfield Blvd. – 9:15 p.m.
- San Jose – Discovery Meadow at 180 Woz Way – 9:30 p.m.
- Santa Clara – Great America at 4701 Great America Pkwy – 9:45 p.m.