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News Release
Date: June 22, 2011
Fire Department Reminder: All Fireworks Are Illegal In Windsor
Windsor, CA—Windsor Fire Protection District officials want to
remind Windsor-area residents that the use of any fireworks
(including sparklers and so-called “safe and sane” fireworks) is
illegal in Windsor—both within the Town limits and in all of the
unincorporated areas of Sonoma County.
Fireworks, even the “safe and sane” ones, are dangerous. Every year
thousands of people—most often teens and children—are injured while
using fireworks.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports there were
8,800 people were seen in emergency rooms for fireworks-related
injuries in 2009. The highest number—25 percent—were the result of
sparklers. Sparklers can explode or throw off hot sparks, reaching
temperatures as high as 1200 degrees.
“It’s important to note,” Windsor Fire Battalion/Fire Marshal Chief
Matt Gustafson said, “that 88 percent of the reported injuries in
2009 resulted from “safe” fireworks.”
In addition to injuries, fireworks caused an estimated 18,000
reported fires: 1300 structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300
outside and other fires, for a total loss of $38 million.
“June weather is fire weather, said Fire Chief Ron Collier. “One
spark is all it takes.”
In addition to risk of injury, fireworks users should know that they
must pay the cost of fighting fires caused by fireworks, which can
be tens of thousands of dollars, as well as the costs of the
property damage and/or injury done to others.
Chief Gustafson went on to say, “We understand that 4th of July
fireworks are an American tradition, tied to the celebration of our
great Country’s birthday. There will be a great fireworks show at
Keiser Park on July 3. We urge our friends and neighbors to make
this their fireworks experience.”
Windsor Fire Protection District 35,000 in 30 square miles (5 urban;
25 rural) and responds to more than 2000 calls each year. For more
information, visit the department’s website www.windsorfire.net
and/or visit on Facebook and/or Twitter.
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Contact: Battalion Chief Matt Gustafson
Office: 707/838-1170
FAX: 707/838-1173
E-mail: mgustafston@windsorfpd.com
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