Fireworks Warning For Walnut Creek Residents

WALNUT CREEK, CA — Ahead of the 4th of July holiday, Contra Costa County warned residents about the extreme danger of fireworks in a joint news release.

Due to drought conditions, communities throughout the area experienced a 75 percent increase in grass and vegetation fires this year as compared to two years ago, the release said.

“All fireworks, regardless of type or labeling, are illegal everywhere in Contra Costa County,” the release stated.

There are no Safe and Sane fireworks allowed in the county, unlike in Dublin and Union City in Alameda County.

“Regardless of labeling, they are all dangerous and uncontrollable,” the release said. “A new fireworks ordinance Chapter 44-2 of the County Ordinance Code enacted last year, along with numerous city ordinances, has strengthened enforcement abilities.”

Initial fines for violators could reach $100, the release said. A second violation within a year could result in a $200 fine and each additional violation is $500, according to the release.

“The only safe and sane approach to fireworks in Contra Costa County is to simply not use them,” Fire Chief Lewis Broschard with Contra Costa County Fire Protection District said.

See Nearby: 4 Bay Area Wildfires Scorch 739 Acres

“My office will work vigilantly with our law enforcement partners to curtail the use of illegal fireworks,” Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton said. “Those who engage in acts of unlawful burning that put our communities in danger will face legal jeopardy.”

Visit this link to read the full news release.