Just Say No to Fireworks This Fourth of July: Mill Valley Police, Fire Urge

Mill Valley, CA — The Mill Valley police and fire departments issued a joint public information message Tuesday about fireworks.

Consumer fireworks are illegal to purchase in Mill Valley and in Marin County, and officers will be strictly enforcing fireworks violations, according to the statement.

"Some communities in the Bay Area allow for the possession and use of so-called 'safe and sane' fireworks; this is not the case in Marin County," authorities said.

• 'Please Don't Have a Blast with Fireworks in Marin'

Further, Mill Valley fire officials said two out of every five fires reported this time of year are caused by fireworks.

Here are some tips offered for those who care to keep the community safe this 4th of July holiday:

• First, leave fireworks to the professionals, all domestic use fireworks are illegal, even the "safe and sane."
• Second, report illegal fireworks use to the Mill Valley Police Department by calling 415-446-4526.
• In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Here are some facts offered about the danger of illegally possessing fireworks:

• Each July Fourth, thousands of children and young adults are injured annually using consumer fireworks dubbed "safe and sane." Cost of property damage is up to $32 million.
• Sparkler burn up to 1,200 degrees — higher than the temperature to melt glass.
• The risk of fireworks injury is highest for children ages 5-19 and adults 25-44.
• Possession or use of fireworks starts as a misdemeanor and increases with severity of violations.
• Chinese Fire Lanterns are also illegal and very dangerous.

Community members are encouraged to enjoy nightly fireworks at the Marin County Fair, shot from three barges over the lagoon at 9:30 p.m. nightly this Thursday through Monday.

(Photo/US CPSC via Flickr Creative Commons)