News Flash

PRESS RELEASE City of Woodland Fire Department  1000 Lincoln Ave.  Woodland, CA 95695  Phone: 530-661-5860  Fax: 530-662-5781

Independence Day, unfortunately, is one of the busiest days of the year for fire fighters. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year, and two out of five are fireworks-related incidents. On average, 8,500 fires per year, with an average of $43 million in direct property damage.

The Woodland Fire Department advises that the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. “Consumer fireworks are dangerous and the risks to personal safety and the safety of the community are significant,” says Jose Colin, Acting Fire Marshal. As the County Fire continues to char thousands of acres, the Woodland Fire Department hopes that will be a reminder, dissuading residents from igniting illegal fireworks. 

According to a 2017 report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were involved in an estimated 11,000 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments annually. Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks, BBQ's and community events can quickly turn to disaster if proper precautions are not taken.

Children are especially at risk on July 4. Of those injured, 35 percent of victims with fireworks injuries were under 15. Children should never play with fireworks. Even sparklers can reach 1200º Fahrenheit.

“Only Safe and Sane fireworks are legal in Woodland,” says Colin. All other fireworks are considered “dangerous fireworks” and carry hefty fines for possessing them. Fines for possessing illegal fireworks range from $500 to $1,000 for being caught with up to 25 pounds; $1,000 to $5,000 for having 26 pounds to 100 pounds, with fines increasing up to $50,000 from there.

Please only call 9-1-1 for potentially life-threatening situations so firefighters are available to respond quickly when lives are in danger.

“If you are reporting a noise complaint, please dial 530-666-8920 for all non–life-threatening situations." Urged Colin 

For more information about fireworks safety, visit http://www.nfpa.org/fireworks.

Woodland Fire Department wishes you a joyous Independence Day.