ca firework laws | Apple Valley Bail Bonds

Published July 1, 2019

People May Enjoy Fireworks, but Pets Don’t

The Fourth of July is rapidly approaching, and everyone is anxiously awaiting all of the celebrations. There will be food, parties, games, and fireworks. Celebrating the Fourth of July is a big deal, and a whole lot of fun. Everyone is looking forward to it, well, almost everyone anyways.

While people are all very excited about the Fourth of July and how it is celebrated, there is one group out there that doesn’t enjoy the fireworks. Pets all over the United States have varying feelings about fireworks. Some are indifferent towards them, and others are outright terrified. A pet owner needs to consider this before they go out celebrating for the holiday.

Pets Don’t Appreciate Fireworks

Unlike humans, pets aren’t really big fans of fireworks. The problem usually lies in the fact that they don’t understand what the fireworks and explosions are. They don’t see all of the fuss as fun. All they know is that there are a lot of flashing lights and loud explosions that can shake the house. These sounds are already loud for humans, and are much louder for animals who have better hearing, such as cats and dogs.

In order to make sure that a pet feels safe and secure this Fourth of July, a pet owner needs to be there for their animal. Here are a few tips for pet owners to help their pet stay safe this Fourth of July:

• For starters, keep dogs and cats indoors for the night. This can greatly reduce the chances of the animals running away. This also means dogs should be walked in the late afternoon, early evening before any fireworks begin.
• Pets should always have some form of identification on them, whether that is a collar or a microchip. This helps increase the chances of the animal being found again if it does run away.
• Prepare a safe place or den for the animal in their favorite hiding spot. This way if they are scared, they can go someplace that makes them feel safe and comfortable.
• Be calm and don’t yell at the animal. Yelling can stress out the animal even more.
• Don’t force animals to cuddle if they don’t want to. Just allow the animal to do whatever it needs to in order to feel safe.
• Close curtains and blinds to dampen light and noise coming in from fireworks. Also have a radio or TV playing, but not too loud, to help drown out the sounds.
• Avoid leaving pets home alone on Fourth of July, this can cause more stress for them, and lead to them creating a mess in the house.
• Never leave dogs tied up outside on the Fourth of July. That is a sure fire way to stress out the animal, which could lead to it hurting itself or running away.
• Never take a dog to a firework show, even if they do not seem fazed by fireworks. This could still be a frightening experience for the pooch.

Keep Pets in Mind This Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is meant to be a fun holiday celebrating the nation’s independence. Unfortunately, while setting off fireworks is a fun for people, pets don’t appreciate the loud booms and colorful flashes. Fireworks can be absolutely terrifying for them. When a pet is scared, it is up to their owner to take care of them.

Every pet responds to fireworks a little differently, so each pet will need its own unique solutions to help it stay calm. Do you have a pet that is terrified of fireworks? If so, do you have any tips to help keep it calm that aren’t on this list?

Published July 1, 2019

What Fireworks Are Legal in California?

June is quickly racing by, bringing us closer and closer to one of the biggest and most important holidays of the year for the nation. There is no denying that the Fourth of July is a huge deal to everyone living in America. After all, the holiday celebrates the country’s founding. The Fourth of July is the United States of America’s birthday, and every citizen wants to celebrate it.

Celebrations vary depending on the location, but they all tend to revolve around a few select practices. For instance, most people through barbeques, small towns love to host parades, and people love to set off fireworks once the skies get dark enough. While all of these things are a part of the usual celebrations for the holiday, one of them can be very dangerous.

Fireworks are a big part of the Fourth of July holiday, however, they can also be extremely dangerous. After all, they are explosive devices. If they are handled improperly, then a person can harm someone or damage property. If a person wants to avoid doing either of those things, they need to celebrate the nation’s birthday safely.

Safe and Sane Vs. Dangerous Fireworks

When a person looks at fireworks, they can easily see how the colorful explosions and flames can be dangerous. One wrong move and the flames or embers of one of the devices could land on someone, or in some dry vegetation. Unfortunately, despite the obvious dangers, a lot of people out there still manage to improperly use fireworks. This has led some states to take action.

For instance, here in California, fireworks use is heavily restricted. The state of California has divided all fireworks into two different types: safe and sane, and dangerous. Safe and sane fireworks are smaller, less dangerous explosives that everyday people can buy at licensed fireworks vendors. Dangerous fireworks are what are typically used in public displays, and require a special license to set off.

It is illegal for a person to set off dangerous fireworks without a license. It is also illegal to sell or give dangerous fireworks to anyone under the age of 18.

For safe and sane fireworks, it is illegal to sell or give them to anyone under the age of 16. It is also illegal to use fireworks in certain areas, especially those that are prone to dry vegetation and wildfires. A person should look up local laws to learn more.

If a person breaks any of these laws regarding fireworks, they will face penalties, including:

• A misdemeanor.
• Up to 1 year in jail.
• A max fine of $1,000.

If a person is found to be in possession of a vast quantity of dangerous fireworks and doesn’t have a license, then they could face felony charges. These charges could come with:

• Up to 3 years in state prison.
• A max fine of $50,000.

Why Do We Have Restrictions?

As every California resident has seen over the last few years, wildfires are incredibly destructive. When a wildfire sparks to life in dry vegetation, it can quickly grow out of control. In order to prevent as much devastation as possible, the state of California has enacted dozens of laws. This is arguably one of the bigger reasons for why fireworks are so restricted here in the state.

Aside from the obvious danger to the landscape, fireworks are also just dangerous to people. They can cause small injuries by burning someone, or larger, more traumatic injuries by exploding in a person’s hand. Hundreds of people are sent to the ER every single year on the Fourth of July due to fireworks. Don’t be one of those people, and be safe when using fireworks.

Have Fun and Be Safe

The Fourth of July is meant to be a fun celebration of the birth of the United States. Don’t ruin the celebration by starting a wildfire, burning a neighbor’s house down, or losing a finger. Fireworks, while fun and pretty, are still very dangerous. Even if they are labeled as safe and sane. Fireworks need to be treated with care and respect.

Pretty much everyone here in the US has celebrated the Fourth of July at least once. What are some of your favorite memories of the holiday? Was it the great barbeque food, hanging out with the family, or seeing some spectacular fireworks displays?

Published June 21, 2018

Illegal Fireworks within California

The Furth of July is coming up, and it’s an exciting time to let your American spirit fly. It feels like just yesterday we were talking about Valentine’s Day and recommending great date ideals. Now we’re here gearing up to get as patriotic a possible. What better way to enjoy being an American than by dressing up in the flag and setting off fireworks.

Fireworks are exciting, but can be dangerous. Here in California, certain fireworks are banned for the public’s safety. The list of banned fireworks is long, but it’s all in the public’s best interest. California is a very populated state, as well as one of the driest. Fireworks going wrong can result in a large fire, and deaths. Rules regarding where you can set fireworks off vary from city to city. Some towns don’t even allow their residents to set off fireworks. The following are the banned fireworks in California:

• Firecrackers.
• Skyrockets.
• Rockets.
• Roman candles.
• Chasers.
• All wire & wooden stick sparklers.
• Surprise items.
• Friction items.
• Torpedoes.
• Firework kits.
• Fireworks containing arsenic, phosphorus, thiocyanates magnesium (magnesium-aluminum alloys permitted ), mercury salts, picrates or picric acid, gallates or gallic acid, chlorates (with few excepts), boron, titanium (except particle sizes larger than 100 mesh), zirconium, gunpowder, and fireworks kits.

There are a lot of restrictions when it comes to setting off fireworks in California. For starters you can’t even purchase fireworks unless your 16 years or older. Fireworks are considered illegal, unless you have special permit. You can also only find fireworks being sold from June 28 to July 6. That’s why you can’t find fireworks year round.

If you decide to let your American spirit go out of control, you’ll probably land in some big trouble. California takes their laws regarding fireworks very seriously. However, most firework violations typically result in misdemeanors, which can result in up to one year in county jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines. Having a large quantity of fireworks that are considered dangerous without the proper permits can result in a felony. Receiving a felony charge can result in three years in prison and a $50,000 fine.

Fireworks sometimes feel like an American staple. In order to be considered an American, you must enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July. Fireworks are mind blowing contraptions that excite us with their danger and beauty. However, we need to remember that while we go full blown American, we need take precautions. We need to be aware of the safety of others as we set off fireworks.

Published June 20, 2017

Fireworks Laws You Need to Follow

The 4th of July is marked with reds, whites, and blues, barbecue food, and fireworks. This holiday, America’s birthday, is one of those few special times of the year that people can celebrate with fireworks, and it is the only time of the year to actually purchase them, believe it or not. This 4th of July, make sure you are up to date on California’s fireworks laws if you plan on using them at your own party. The laws are easy to understand and follow, and will still allow you to have more than enough fun and excitement.

• There are “Safe and Sane” fireworks and there are “Dangerous” ones. It is illegal for anyone to sell or purchase dangerous fireworks unless the person holds a special pyrotechnic license.
• The only individuals who are allowed to purchase, own, and use “dangerous” fireworks are those with the special permit. It is illegal for this individual to sell or give away these fireworks to anyone, including friends and family.
• A person must be at least 16 years of age to purchase “safe and sane” fireworks. They may only purchase from licensed retailers between June 28 and July 6 each year.
• It is illegal for anyone to sell fireworks anytime outside of June 28 to July 6. If a retailer does not sell out within that period, they have no choice but to store it until that same period next year.
• The state of California has fireworks laws, but then each county within the state may have additional fireworks laws. Wherever you are for the 4th of July, read up on the county’s laws.

Understanding and following fireworks laws is only going to provide half of the fun on the 4th of July. The other half will come from handling the fireworks properly, such as keeping them stored in a safe location, and allowing only those who are responsible and old enough to discharge them according to the printed directions. Every year the news picks up on some stories about mishandled fireworks that caused injury or death. That is not an outcome anyone wants after the 4th of July. Avoid the risk of this happening by using the fireworks safely.

In preparation for your 4th of July party, throw on all your red, white, and blue clothes, fire up the grill, invite all your friends and family, and prevent the need for any police and medical attention by using your “safe and sane” fireworks properly.

Published June 15, 2017

Basic Fireworks Laws in California

Fireworks are a unique sight to see. They can be witnessed on certain occasions every year such as 4th of July, and New Year’s. They can be seen more regularly at certain locations like at Disneyland and baseball stadiums. For the 2 big national holidays, private individuals are allowed to discharge fireworks on their own at their homes, provided the proper safety protocols are followed. California has very specific laws when it comes to fireworks, and consequences are enforced when the law is not followed.

There are two categories of fireworks: dangerous, and safe and sane. Dangerous fireworks cannot be sold to the public. These are generally the ones that are used during the large, public, holiday shows that are organized by licensed operators. Private individuals can purchase safe and sane fireworks from licensed retailers, but only between June 28 and July 6 each year. In addition, a person must be at least 16 years old in order to purchase safe and sane fireworks.

There are safety instructions on the package of fireworks. These instructions must be followed. Fireworks must be discharged outdoors only, and a safe distance away from other people and flammable items; have a bucket of water or a hose nearby. Only those who are old enough and responsible enough to safely handle the fireworks should be allowed to do so. By following these instructions, the possibilities of injury and damage are significantly reduced.

Though fireworks are legal throughout California, each city and county within the state may have additional laws that their neighboring city may not. Before setting off a firework, make sure you look up what you can and cannot do with fireworks in your area.

Anyone in violation of a firework law is subject to fines and possible jail time. For misdemeanors, it is a $1,000 fine and up to 1 year in jail. For felonies, like if someone was caught in possession of dangerous fireworks, the fine can be as high as $50,000 and the prison sentence can be as long as 3 years. If someone’s fireworks cause injury or damage, they can be sued and face additional charges that would increase the consequences.

4th of July is just weeks away and if you plan on using fireworks at your own party, rather than going out to view the public display, make sure you have the right fireworks and that they will be used safely. Being just a little bit more careful never hurts.

Published June 13, 2017

How You Should Handle Fireworks in California

In order to have fun and celebrate the 4th of July, you need to understand the proper safety rules. Drinking responsibly is something you practice and preach day in and day out. However, fireworks safety is something you do not see or use on a regular basis. If you do not really know the safety rules for fireworks usage, do not be ashamed, just keep reading.

First things first: fireworks are not toys and must only be handled by those who are responsible enough to know how to use them safely.

Fireworks should be used outdoors, and there should be a supply of water within easy reach. Instructions are printed on the fireworks package, so whoever is involved should read through those thoroughly before using them.

The person setting off the fireworks should not wear loose clothing, as they do not want it to get in the way and catch fire. In addition, fireworks should be used away from other people, tall objects like trees and power-lines, gas sources, and flammable material.

Every year, there are several stories on people who injured themselves, or caused damage to property, because of fireworks that were mishandled. You do not want to be one of those people.

Another thing that happens yearly is people getting citations or being arrested for violating California’s fireworks laws. Again, you do not want to be one of these people.

Those who do end up arrested for violating fireworks laws are more than likely going to be allowed to post bail, and they can do this with cash bail or a bail bond. For a bail bond, Apple Valley Bail Bonds is the bail bond company to rely on, and they can be reached 24/7 both online, and at 760-247-4444.

Published June 8, 2017

What to Know About Fireworks

You will not have to wait much longer to buy your fireworks for July 4. In just a few days time, it will be June 28, the first day people are allowed to purchase fireworks in California. Fireworks can continue to be purchased until July 6. Other than knowing when you can buy your fireworks, you will need to know what type of fireworks you can buy, and more importantly, how to handle them properly. Fireworks are not toys. They need to be in the hands of only those who are responsible and old enough to use them safely and properly.

Fireworks are categorized as either “dangerous” or “safe and sane.” Under no circumstances can dangerous fireworks be sold to the public. Dangerous fireworks include firecrackers, roman candles, rockets, sparklers longer than 10 inches, torpedoes, and more. Safe and sane fireworks can be sold to the public by licensed retailers. Safe and sane fireworks will have the Fire Marshal’s seal on the product to signify that it is a legal and approved firework for private citizen use.

No one under the age of 16 may purchase a firework. However, there is no law that states a 16 year old cannot be the one to set it off. Nonetheless, the 16 year old, or whoever sets off a firework, will need to read the instructions so they can do so safely. Parents are advised to be present.

It is illegal to discharge fireworks within 100 feet of a gasoline source or other flammable liquid. Fireworks must also be discharged outdoors, and away from tall trees, power poles, and other people. Having a hose and buckets of water on hand nearby is a good idea, just in case an accident happens.

Under California law, it is a misdemeanor crime to violate a fireworks safety code. Penalties include up to 1 year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. If a person is found to be in possession of dangerous fireworks, they may have to pay thousands of dollars in fines and additional jail time. The more dangerous fireworks in their possession, the greater the consequences.

To ensure everyone has a fun and safe 4th of July celebration, make sure that safety rules are followed when it comes to discharging fireworks. You sure would hate to have your fun night ruined by an accident, and the police sure would hate to respond to an incident.

Published May 28, 2017

Fireworks Safety Tips

Independence Day still seems like a way’s off, but there are people who are already gearing up for the day that will be filled with BBQ food, drinks, and fireworks. Those are three essentials to almost every 4th of July party and you can bet people are already starting to make plans with friends and family in regards to who is hosting and bringing what. If you are the one bringing the fireworks, make sure you bring fireworks that are legal and that you use them safely.

• Purchase fireworks that are categorized only as “safe and sane” not “dangerous” from a permitted fireworks vendor. These fireworks will have the Fire Marshal’s seal stamped on them.
• Keep fireworks stored away from fire sources and other flammable material.
• When you are ready to use the fireworks, have a bucket of water and/ or a hose nearby, just in case.
• Read and follow the directions as they are written on the fireworks.
• If youths are using fireworks, make sure adults are nearby.
• Use fireworks outdoors only, away from fire sources, dry grass, and other flammable material.
• Make sure there no one is too close when the fireworks are being lit. Do not point them at people, property, trees, power poles, etc.
• If you find that one of your fireworks is broken, throw it away rather than trying to fix it.
• Tight fitting clothing is preferred for the people who are going to light the fireworks. Loose clothing can get in the way, potentially catching fire.
• Fireworks are not toys, and must be handled with care and caution. They should only be used by those who understand the safety rules and will abide by them.
• For any damages or injuries done from fireworks used by children, the burden falls on the parents.

Anyone found violating the rules and regulations for fireworks usage such as purchasing and using dangerous fireworks, inflicting damage or injury, or storing them in unsafe conditions, will be fined and could face jail time. Of course, the punishment depends on the severity of the violation.

If you do not want to risk using fireworks at your home, or even that of your friend’s, you can always bring the family to the local fireworks show that is organized by the city and the licensed fireworks operators.

Either way, whether you plan on playing with safe and sane fireworks on your own, or just leaving it to the official fireworks show for the community, we encourage all to have a fun and safe 4th of July celebration.

Published May 25, 2017

The Rules of Fireworks

For anyone who is starting to plan their July 4 activities, do not forget the fireworks! It is always great watching the big fireworks show that is planned for the general public, but at some point you get tired of going early to find parking and snag a good spot. Besides, this year, your friend is hosting a party and you do not want to miss it. This party still needs fireworks because what is a 4th of July celebration without them? If you plan on bringing some fireworks to your friend’s party, make sure you know what is and is not allowed. The last thing you want is for somebody to get hurt and the police to shut you guys down.

Fireworks are categorized as either “dangerous fireworks” or “safe and sane fireworks.”

Dangerous Fireworks
In order to purchase and use dangerous fireworks, you must have a special license. Basically, the general public cannot purchase dangerous fireworks. Those who put on the official fireworks show for the general public can. These individuals have that special display license needed. Plus, purchasers with the special display license must be at least 18 years old.

Safe and Sane Fireworks
The general public can purchase safe and sane fireworks, but only from licensed sellers and only between June 28 and July 6 each year. Anyone who wishes to purchase any safe and sane fireworks must be at least 16 years old.

There are penalties if someone disobeys any firework laws in California. They include up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Most violations are classified as a misdemeanor, but charges can increase to a felony if it involves dangerous fireworks and/ or an incident occurred that caused injury or even death. Felonies are punishable with more time in prison and thousands of dollars in fines, not to mention whatever you would need to pay for medical bills and legal fees.

In order to avoid accidents caused by fireworks, there are certain practices to follow. For example, legally purchased safe and sane fireworks should be used outdoors and away from trees and bushes that can catch fire. They should also be used away from sources of gas and other flammable items and materials. Responsible and mature individuals should be the ones using them, and children need to be supervised. Fireworks come with safety instructions so make sure to read those carefully.