RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The City of Rancho Cordova, RCPD and Sacramento Metro Fire District encourage residents to be safe when using fireworks this Fourth of July season.

The unsafe use of fireworks can have devastating effects, including fire-related property damage and severe injuries. And, with news of the drought, the risk of fire is extremely high.

A “social host” ordinance has been in effect since June 2021. Now, you could face up to a year in county jail and up to a $1,000 fine for illegal fireworks that are used at your property or gathering.

Keep your loved ones and community safe by following key safety tips and know how to report illegal fireworks use.

Fireworks 101: All legal fireworks in California are called Safe and Sane Fireworks and must bear the State Fire Marshal’s seal; Safe and Sane Fireworks may be sold only at licensed and permitted businesses from noon on June 28, 2022 through 10 PM on July 4, 2022; In Rancho Cordova, use of fireworks is allowed only between noon on June 28, 2022 through 10 PM on July 4, 2022, and only between 8 AM and 10 PM daily during this period; Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal in California; It is illegal for anyone under 18 years of age to use fireworks, and it is also illegal to sell, give or deliver fireworks to anyone under 18; It is illegal to point or throw a firework into a crowd or at people; Fireworks are not allowed in any public park.

Safety Tips: Always have a bucket of water nearby to dispose of fireworks and leave in the water overnight before disposing; Always have a hose connected to water available in case of fire; Do not use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials. Mow your lawn more frequently to reduce fire hazards; Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio or under a tree or bushes; Never attempt to relight or “fix” fireworks; Pets can become frightened by the loud sounds of fireworks. Keep your pets indoors, or if you take a pet with you, keep him or her leashed and under your direct control at all times; Leave the fireworks to the pros! Rancho Cordova’s Fourth of July Celebration returns July 3 and 4, 2022. Learn more: RanchoCordovaJuly4th.com

Report Illegal Fireworks

Rancho Cordova, report illegal fireworks! If you suspect the use of illegal fireworks, report incidents to RCPD with a location of the activity at 916.362.5115. Proactive patrols for illegal fireworks will take place the nights of July 3 and 4, 2022.

Win Free Tickets to Rancho Cordova’s 4^th of July Celebration.

When you put your fireworks safety knowledge to the test, you could win four tickets to Rancho Cordova’s 4th of July Celebration! Enter for the chance to win at CityofRanchoCordova.org/fireworks by Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at 5 PM.

Visit CityofRanchoCordova.org/fireworks to learn more about fireworks safety.