Help keep our community safe this Fourth of July
With the Independence Day holiday approaching, the danger and disturbance of illegal fireworks activity have already begun. The City of San José is asking for the community’s partnership to help curb illegal fireworks activity and urges residents to report illegal fireworks online at www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks or by calling 408-535-5600 or 311.
Online reports will assist the City in taking enforcement actions and will also help identify problem areas. When filing an online report, it’s important to include as much detail as possible. If able to safely take a photo of fireworks being used on private property, include a copy with the online report. All reports will be reviewed and if sufficient information is provided, the City’s Code Enforcement Division will issue a warning or citation.
All fireworks, even those labeled ‘safe and sane’ are dangerous and illegal to own, sell or use in the City of San José and most of Santa Clara County. Violations for using illegal fireworks can result in fines up to $1,000 and the sale of fireworks can cost up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on the quantity.
In 2017, the National Fire Protection Association reported U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 12,900 people for fireworks-related injuries. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for more than one-third (36%) of those injuries. Fireworks also start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires.
Please help avoid injuries and damage caused by illegal fireworks use this Fourth of July. As always, if you observe an active fire or experience a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.
