The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office will have dedicated patrols issuing citations for illegal fireworks with fines up to $1,000 per offense on July 2, 3 and 4. If you see someone in your neighborhood actively lighting illegal fireworks, please call 911. If you see illegal fireworks in your neighborhood, please call 311 to help capture data to inform further enforcement efforts. This pilot program is made possible with funding from the safe and sane fireworks industry and Sacramento County to help reduce the risk of fire during the dry fire season.

Fireworks Safety

  • Follow the directions on all fireworks and don’t use them for anything other than what they’re intended for.
  • Don’t attempt to alter or combine fireworks products.
  • Never use homemade fireworks.
  • Report illegal explosives to the nearest fire or police department.
  • When lighting fireworks, always have water handy. A hose is best, but a bucket will suffice.
  • Spectators should remain a safe distance from the fireworks being lit.
  • Whoever lights the fireworks must be sober, wear safety glasses, and keep clothing well away from the flame when lighting.
  • Only light fireworks outdoors on a smooth, flat surface, away from all flammable materials including dry leaves and paper.
  • Never try to relight fireworks that appear to be duds. Wait up to 20 minutes for a possible delayed ignition. Then if nothing happens, soak the firework in a bucket of water and dispose of it.
  • Dispose of all firework materials by soaking them in water before putting them in the trash.
  • Keep sparklers away from clothing and other flammable materials.

Pet Precautions

Most animals are frightened by fireworks. Pets that feel scared may react by running away from home, defecating indoors, or otherwise destroying property. Protect your pets on the fourth of July by taking some basic precautions.

  • Don’t take your pets to fireworks displays.
  • Don’t leave your pets in a car by themselves.
  • Don’t leave your pets unattended outside.
  • During public fireworks displays, keep your pets in a safe place indoors where they won’t be able to destroy anything.
  • If your home isn’t soundproof, leave the television or radio on so your pets won’t hear the fireworks.
  • Consult your veterinarian ahead of the holiday if your pets have a tendency to overreact to loud noises.

Additional Safety Precautions to Keep in Mind

  • During daylight hours, you’ll want to protect yourself from excessive exposure to the sun. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
  • Heatstroke and dehydration are other daylight concerns to keep in mind. Be sure to drink plenty of water and seek out shady areas if you feel overheated.
  • If you host or attend a barbecue, beware of possible fire hazards and outdoor food spoilage.
  • Depending on your location, you may need to wear insect repellent and be alert for bees or wasps.
  • Use good judgment when going swimming or boating. Be alert to water conditions, such as water depth and ocean currents. Make sure novice swimmers use flotation devices and children have chaperones.
  • Wear protective gear for bicycling and other sports.