Unlike years past, people setting off any type of fireworks within city limits – even sparklers and firecrackers – can be charged with a misdemeanor and issued a $100 citation. That’s the outcome of a city council decision earlier this year to implement a ban on fireworks, including the “safe and sane” kind sold at roadside fireworks stands in the county. Setting off explosives such as M-80s is considered a felony under county health and safety codes, and is punishable by state jail time.
Police officers hope to drive the point home this year: Setting off fireworks is illegal in the City of Half Moon Bay.
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Aside from mitigating potentially volatile fire threats, police officers say fireworks of all shapes and sizes pose a serious public safety risk.
“Statistics show that safe and sane fireworks can be just as dangerous (as illegal explosive fireworks), especially to children under the age of 15. Most injuries caused to children come from those,” said Half Moon Bay Police Chief Don O’Keefe, referencing a National Fire Protection Association study from 2006.
As in years past, police officers and sheriff’s deputies will be out in full force – none get the holiday off – patrolling side streets and responding to calls of illegal activity.
County Sheriff’s Lt. Ken Jones says county codes grant deputies authority to issue $1,000 citations and six-month prison sentences for disobeying the law, even to people running around with sparklers.
“If you go by the book, that’s what they can do,” Jones said.
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