Auburn – During the weeks leading up to the 4th of July, CAL FIRE Law Enforcement Officer’s conducted a multi-agency fireworks seizure operation. The overall success of reducing the quantity of dangerous and illegal fireworks entering California would not have been possible without the support and concerted efforts from the California Department of Food and Agriculture, United States Forest Service, Truckee Police Department, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Placer County Sheriff’s Office, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, Sierra County Sheriff Office and the United States Department of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.
The interdiction operation occurred at the California I-80 Agricultural Inspection Station in Truckee near the California Nevada State line.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of 15365 pounds of illegal fireworks. 58 citations were issued for misdemeanor possession and transportation of illegal fireworks. 31 people were arrested for felony possession and transportation of illegal fireworks.
“Illegal fireworks are responsible for devastating injuries and fires every year in our region,” said CAL FIRE Prevention Bureau Chief Mike Rufenacht.
“The devastating effects of wildfires caused from dangerous and illegal fireworks cannot be underestimated. I’m very grateful for the efforts of CAL FIRE Law Enforcement and the Office of the California State Fire Marshal” Anna Tyner Deputy District Attorney Nevada County
Current data from the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission report of firework related injuries details on average 180 people are sent to hospital emergency rooms every day during the month around the 4th of July.
The CPSC also says that the clear majority of injuries are caused by fireworks that are illegal in California.
CAL FIRE wants you to have a safe Fourth of July. Remember One Less Spark causes One Less Wildfire. www.readyforwildfire.org
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