Cal Fire warns of fireworks dangers ahead of July Fourth

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Cal Fire says this fire season is ramping up faster than they’ve seen for the last several years here in San Diego – and adding fireworks to the mix could have devastating consequences.

Fire officials are asking people to leave the fireworks to the professionals this Independence Day and wants to remind everyone that fireworks are illegal to ignite in San Diego, even the “Safe and Sane” fireworks. The only fireworks that are legal are the big shows.

In a matter of seconds, what is intended to be a bright and bold celebration of our country’s independence can lead to injuries or an unintended blaze.

“Three minutes seems like a really short time until you’re waiting for an ambulance to arrive, then time stands still,” said Holly Carr, the parent of a burn survivor.

She shared the story of her 5-year-old Tuesday at a Sacramento press conference focused on preventing injuries and fires caused by fireworks.

“One little sparkler popped, hit my five-year-old’s hand, and caused them to swipe the sparkler across their festive polyester skirt. When I say it took seconds for that skirt to disappear, I mean it,” said Carr.

Those few seconds of fun with a sparkler landed her child in the ER fighting for her life.

“Was it a freak accident? Absolutely. Can it happen again to anyone? One hundred percent. Be safe this Fourth and keep your children away from fire,” said Carr.

But injuries aren’t the only concern. With multiple wildfires burning across the state, a heat wave and dry conditions, adding illegal fireworks to the mix could have devastating consequences.

“The acreage that has burned statewide is five-fold on top of the five-year average so we’re seeing these fires spread a lot faster,” said Cal Fire San Diego County Fire Captain Thomas Shoots.

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