Firework stands open in Santa Maria

Posted: Jun 28, 2010 6:19 PM by Monica Quintero
Updated: Jun 28, 2010 6:21 PM

Fireworks stands opened on Monday throughout Santa Maria. So, a reminder for you of where they're legal on the Central Coast. In Santa Barbara County, "safe and sane" fireworks are only allowed in the cities of Santa Maria and Guadalupe. In San Luis Obispo County, they're legal in Arroyo Grande, Oceano, Grover Beach, San Miguel and Templeton.

Santa Maria firefighters want to make sure the rules are being followed by those who sell fireworks as well as those using them. Emiliano Enriquez, Fire Prevention Officer, said, "Fireworks bought here in the city of Santa Maria need to be used here in the city of Santa Maria." That's where some people get confused. While "safe and sane" fireworks are legal in Santa Maria and Guadalupe, you can only set them off in the jurisdiction they were bought in. Enriquez said, "You need to buy them in Guadalupe and use them there. You can not transport them it is illegal."

When it comes to safety, firefighters say their number one piece of advice, read the directions carefully and use them only as intended. Enriquez, said, "Light them on the floor. A lot of people like to elevate stuff on top of ladder, on top of a table, that's not what they're intended for." Meanwhile, behind these firework stands two dozen non-profit organizations such as Pacific Christian Center. Jeff Seeley, Pacific Christian Center Youth Pastor, said, "We raise a lot. It's a big part of our budget for our student ministries." On average, each group raises about $10,000.

It's all part of a big community effort to keep you and your family safe and help the success of non-profits which in turn are helping others throughout the area. Santa Maria does have a tipline where you can report dangerous or illegal firework activity. In fact, last year police were tipped off and confiscated 3600 pounds of illegal fireworks before they were sold. The phone number to that tip line is 925-0951 extension FIRE. As always firefighters say the best thing to do this July Fourth is to attend the firework events in your community.