SAN FIRE Announces Fireworks Regulations and Safety Guidelines for San Andreas Residents
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The San Andreas Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (SAN FIRE) is pleased to provide important information regarding fireworks regulations and safety guidelines for residents across the state. As we approach the upcoming holiday season, it is vital to understand which fireworks are legal, which are illegal, and the regulations in place to ensure the safety of our communities.
San Andreas' Fireworks Law, also known as the FUSE Act passed in 2023, established the Office of the State Fire Marshal (SFM) as the only fireworks classification authority in San Andreas. Fireworks are classified through laboratory analysis, field examinations and test firing of items.
Legal "Safe and Sane" Fireworks:
SAN FIRE permits the use of "Safe and Sane" fireworks in designated communities throughout San Adreas. These fireworks have passed rigorous safety testing and bear the official seal of the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) on their packaging. The OSFM seal indicates that the fireworks meet specific safety standards established by the state.
Examples of legal "Safe and Sane" fireworks include, but are not limited to:
- Sparklers
- Cone fountains
- Wheels
- Ground spinners
- Smoke devices
- Snakes or glow worms
- Novelty items such as party poppers and snaps
Illegal and Dangerous Fireworks:
SAN FIRE reminds all residents that the use, possession, and sale of dangerous fireworks without proper permits are strictly prohibited. These fireworks pose significant risks to public safety and can cause severe injuries, property damage, and wildfires.
San Andreas has zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
- Firecrackers
- Skyrockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Bottle rockets
- Mortars
- M-80s, cherry bombs, or any explosive devices
Regulations and Safety Guidelines:
To ensure the well-being of our communities, SAN FIRE urges all residents to adhere to the following regulations and safety guidelines:
Purchase legal "Safe and Sane" fireworks only: When purchasing fireworks, look for the official OSFM seal on the packaging to ensure their legality and compliance with safety standards. Office of State Fire Marshal requires the licensing of all pyrotechnic operators, fireworks manufacturers, importer-exporters, wholesalers, retailers, and public display companies.
Use fireworks in designated communities: Confirm whether the use of "Safe and Sane" fireworks is permitted in your specific community by consulting the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Local ordinances should be verified before purchasing and/or using fireworks.
Follow instructions carefully: Read and follow the instructions provided with the fireworks to ensure proper usage and minimize the risk of accidents.
Supervise children: Keep a watchful eye on children and ensure they do not handle fireworks unsupervised. Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults and should always be present. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 18 to sell, buy, store/possess and use fireworks or for someone to buy fireworks on behalf of a minor. Parents are liable for any damage or injuries by their children using fireworks.
Outdoor use only: Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from flammable materials, structures, and dry vegetation and light one firework at a time. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby for emergencies. During droughts or dry spells it's reccommended to use a bucket of gray/reused water.
Proper disposal: After use, fully soak spent fireworks in water before disposing of them in a non-combustible container.
Injury Prevention Tips: Always ensure to never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse and ensure distance from the device immediately after lighting. Ensure when using fireworks that you do not wear any loose fitting clothing.
Do not point or throw fireworks at another person, experiment with or attempt to re-light or "fix" a device. Fireworks are not toys.
By following these guidelines, we can celebrate safely while protecting our communities and environment from potential fire hazards.
For more information on fireworks regulations and safety, please contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal or visit their website.
SAN FIRE wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
