Got Fireworks? Police Are Looking for You

Want to go to jail on July Fourth? Set a match to fireworks.

The City of Long Beach is reminding visitors and residents alike that fireworks are illegal in Long Beach. You or your kids could land in a hospital, or set fire to your neighborhood, city officials say; it's just not worth it.

Celebrating Independence Day in Long Beach with any fireworks — even sparklers or those labeled “safe and sane” — can garner a $1,000 fine and six months jail time, according to city officials.

Long Beach Police and Fire Department personnel will be out in increased numbers on Shoreline Drive July 4 and on the lookout for an assortment of illegal acitivities, including fireworks possession and public and underage consumption of alcohol, according to a police announcement.

The LBPD is encouraging the public to surrender fireworks voluntarily in bins available at lifeguard headquarters and fire and police stations.  

More serious violations may merit steeper penalties, city officials warn.

In 2004, more than 9,500 injuries related to fireworks were reported at hospitals in the U.S., according to U.S. government statistics available on the LBPD website. Children under 15 accounted for more than half of all injuries, with sparklers being the biggest culprit, responsible for half of all fireworks injuries in children under 5. Most fireworks accidents result in harm to hands and faces.

Observing the ordinance will help reduce injuries caused by fireworks that occur every year in Long Beach, according to the LBPD, which recommends attending one of the many fireworks celebrations happening in the city in lieu of lighting up dangerous devices at home.

Public fireworks will be on display at the Queen Mary July 4 Celebration & Fireworks, the Veteran’s Stadium Fireworks Show, and at Aquarium of the Pacific.