City increases illegal fireworks fines

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In the coming months, the City Council will be hold a symposium on fireworks

Only Safe and Sane fireworks can be set off anywhere in the City of Paramount and only on July 3 and July 4 only. Setting them off on any other date can result in a $250 fine. You must be 16 years or older to buy Safe and Sane fireworks.

All others fireworks – like bottle rockets, firecrackers and M80s – are illegal. Use or possession of illegal fireworks can result in a fine up to $2,000, an increase over the past. Sales of illegal fireworks can result in a fine up to $5,000, also a newly increased figure.

The city uses a variety of methods to educate the public about fireworks safety and laws, including print and electronic media, flyers at fireworks stands and electronic message board facing Paramount Boulevard.

The public is asked to report any illegal fireworks activity to the Sheriff’s Station at (562) 623-3500. Once a call is placed, a deputy will be assigned to respond to the area where the fireworks are being discharged. When calling dispatch, remember these questions: Where is the violation? What happened? Who is involved? When did it happen? Be as descriptive as possible to ensure that the deputy has all the necessary information to better address the call for service.

It is strongly recommended that individuals refrain from making contact with the allege violators or recording the violations because it may put them at risk.

In a related matter, in the coming months, the Paramount City Council will be holding a symposium on fireworks. Details will be forthcoming.

For more information, call 562-220-2002.