With the fourth of July just a few weeks away, Fountain Valley Fire Department would like to remind everyone that fireworks are only legal in 10 Orange County cities. Fountain Valley DOES NOT allow fireworks. State-approved fireworks are allowed in the cities of Anaheim, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, Stanton, Villa Park and Westminster. The National Fire Protection Association as well as the Fountain Valley Fire Department would like to encourage residents to leave fireworks to the professionals.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, thousands of people each year are injured using consumer fireworks. Sparklers are often thought to be harmless and given to children; however, sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees and can cause significant injuries. United States hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,900 people for fireworks-related injuries in 2015. Of the reported injuries, 65% were burns. Additionally, on Independence Day in a typical year, fireworks account for 40% of all reported U.S. Fires. Fireworks start 18,500 fires, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 16,900 outside/other fires. These fires result in approximately $43 million in direct property damage.
There are several public fireworks displays and parades scheduled around Orange County for you and your family to enjoy. You can find a list of celebrations here. Once again, please leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy a safe and fire-free holiday.