Instead, fire officials said, residents should enjoy a safe Fourth of July by attending one of the professional fireworks shows being held in most local municipalities, including Santa Barbara, Goleta and Solvang.
“Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using illegal fireworks,” County Fire Capt. David Sadecki said in a news release. “Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks — devastating burns, injuries, fires and even death.”
Los Padres National Forest officials echoed warnings about the possession or use of any fireworks in the forest, noting that rangers will be patrolling and enforcing the law strictly.
Anyone found in violation of the “no fireworks” regulation could face a $5,000 fine and up to six months in jail. In addition, anyone who causes a wildfire could be found liable for all suppression costs.
Any suspicious activity in the forest should be reported to U.S. Forest Service officials or the nearest ranger station.
Fire officials offered a few tips for viewing a professional show, urging local residents to avoid any temptation to get close to the launching site, particularly since the best view is typically from a quarter of a mile away.
Any fireworks components that fall to the ground without exploding — a rare occurrence, officials said — should be avoided and pointed out to public safety personnel.
Animal services officials also warned against bringing pets to a fireworks display. Booming fireworks often frighten animals and hundreds of pets typically run away during the annual festivities.
Pets should be kept inside in a quiet, windowless room, if possible, or in a carrier or kennel. Residents should leave the television or radio on to distract their pets.
Domesticated animals should also be licensed and tagged with a current address and phone number.
Residents who discover their pet is missing should visit their local animal shelter in Santa Barbara, Lompoc or Santa Maria. Animal services officials also recommended posting flyers in their neighborhoods and placing an advertisement in the newspaper.