On June 9, 2020, several homes were endangered in the City of Perris. The preliminary investigation determined fireworks were being used, resulting in a large fire. Several residents were evacuated during the incident, and properties were damaged. Department personnel wish to express their deepest sympathies for any families displaced by this incident.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, serving the cities of Perris, Menifee, Canyon Lake, and the unincorporated county areas encourage our communities to enjoy July 4, our nation’s recognition of Independence Day. We would like to remind our communities that it is illegal to possess, discharge, or sell fireworks. All fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in Riverside County. California Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks are also illegal in all unincorporated areas of Riverside County. Every year fireworks cause major damage and tragedies. Fireworks can also cause serious injuries to people, pets, and livestock.
During the weeks leading to Independence Day, the Riverside County Sherriff’s Department and CAL FIRE will have additional patrol personnel throughout our communities and will be enforcing violations for any person caught with fireworks. Violators of Firework Laws will be prosecuted and are subject to: confiscation of fireworks, arrest, citation, and/or fines. A combination of fines for the use of illegal fireworks can cost up to $3,500.
Riverside County has very diverse terrain with dry vegetation where fireworks can easily become a major threat to the community. Individuals who cause fires by using illegal fireworks will be held responsible for all suppression costs. These costs can run up to millions of dollars. Anyone observing the illegal use of fireworks are urged to contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department immediately by calling dispatch at 951-776-1099. For all immediate threats to life or property, please dial 911.
It’s also very important to know that celebratory gunfire is not only unsafe, it is against the law. Discharging a firearm into the air is a crime and can lead to criminal charges under California state law. Bullets fired into the air return to the ground at a high rate of speed and can kill or cause serious injury.
Several local venues will be holding firework shows this year. Please visit your city or chamber of commerce websites for locations.