Bomb Squad called in to help
Perfect timing—just one week before the Fourth of July holiday, Alameda Police Department (APD) received a tip about illegal fireworks being stored and sold at a storage facility in Alameda. During the investigation, APD detectives uncovered a second unit containing more than 1,500 units of illegal fireworks, including professional-grade explosives, according to a APD report [1] on Facebook.
[2]APD called in the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad to safely remove and transport the material for destruction, the report stated. The bomb squad confirmed that this was the largest illegal firework seizure in Alameda County so far this year.
While residents may be accustomed to hearing the sounds of fireworks exploding both here and across the estuary, especially on holidays like the Fourth of July, all fireworks are illegal in the City of Alameda.
“Improper storage and handling of these items pose a serious risk to fire, injury, and death,” the APD report stated. “Unauthorized use of these devices can also be distressing to veterans, pets, and community members with sensory sensitivities.”
“Please celebrate safely by leaving the fireworks to the professionals,” APD advises. However, if you plan to celebrate the 4th with fireworks in a community where they are legal, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has provided some tips for safer use. “It’s important that you follow these safety tips,” their news release stated.
- Use only State Fire Marshall approved fireworks [3].
- Local ordinances should be verified before purchasing and/or using fireworks.
- Always read directions.
- Always have an adult present.
- Only use fireworks outdoors.
- Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
- Light one firework at a time.
- Have a bucket of water and a hose nearby.
- It is recommended that you use a bucket of gray/reused water to submerge your fireworks after they are used to fully extinguish them.
- It is illegal to transport fireworks through any city or county where they are not allowed.
[4]That doesn’t mean Alamedans can’t enjoy spectacular professional fireworks displays on the Fourth of July. As APD noted in its report, San Francisco, Sausalito, Antioch, Benicia, Concord, Moraga, San Jose, Redwood City, and many other cities have fireworks displays scheduled this year. Go and enjoy one of those professional shows instead of putting your community at risk by setting off illegal fireworks in Alameda.