Following late season rains, a growth of now dry seasonal grasses and ongoing drought conditions, we urge Santa Rosans to make safe choices and NOT use fireworks when celebrating the Fourth of July this year.
Regardless of the allure and nostalgia of fireworks, remember that ALL fireworks are illegal in Santa Rosa and the surrounding unincorporated areas. We urge those that are planning to use fireworks to STOP and safely dispose of fireworks or forfeit them to a fire or police station.
Enforcement teams from both the police and fire departments will be patrolling areas and will cite individuals violating the City’s fireworks ban which includes fines. The use of dangerous fireworks or possession of them can result in a citation, additional fines, or an arrest. But please don’t let it get to that point.
Nationwide, more than 16,000 reported fires are started by fireworks annually not to mention hundreds of preventable injuries. Conditions remain dry and an evening of fireworks is not worth the risk to yourself or the community.
Our community has been through a lot since 2017. We are all accountable for doing our part to protect Santa Rosa from the threat of wildfire. Please keep this in mind as you make your plans for the upcoming holiday.
Celebrate safely and be well,
Chief Scott Westrope and Chief John Cregan