Fireworks show gets OK, caution urged

Mount Shasta, Calif. -

Due to the lack of fire trucks, personnel and equipment necessary for the added protection required for fireworks shows, some cities in the northern California are cancelling or postponing their traditional Independence Day events until the threat of fire is reduced.
While Redding, Anderson and Red Bluff have opted to postpone their fireworks shows and Weaverville has cancelled theirs, Mount Shasta and Yreka are going ahead with their events as scheduled the evening of July 4th.
Currently there are over 1,500 wild fires burning throughout the state and fire fighting resources are being stretched to the max as any  crews and equipment that could be spared have been pressed into duty.
With temperatures holding steady in the upper 80s and  tinder dry conditions and no rain in the forecast, citizens are being asked to be especially careful and on the lookout when it comes to fire hazards of all sorts including fireworks.

“We can’t afford to take any chances with the potential fire conditions being as  extreme as they are,” said Mount Shasta Fire Chief Matt Melo.“We need everyone’s help to prevent fire. If you see anything or anyone that looks suspicious or negligent don’t hesitate to call the police or fire department. Particularly with fireworks. Everyone needs to be vigilant. Conditions couldn’t be any worse than they are now.”
The Governor of California issued a statement to the effect that people should celebrate safety on the 4th of July as much as anything else.
“I urge all Californians to use every precaution when using fireworks whether you are in a fire affected area or not”. Scwarzenegger said. “I do not plan to order a statewide ban on fireworks but I do encourage fire-affected counties to take a good look at their resources and take the appropriate steps at the local level, including a ban if necessary, to protect their communities and prevent any further aggravation of our states already severe fire situation.”
Mount Shasta’s fireworks show is going on as planned the evening of Independence Day over Lake Siskiyou and personal fireworks are still being sold in Siskiyou County.
According to the California State Fire Marshall safe and sane approved fireworks can   be used throughout Siskiyou County except in the following areas: It is illegal to possess or use fireworks on all National Forest lands and on Siskiyou County Flood Control District property surrounding Lake Siskiyou and on North Shore Road. It is illegal to use fireworks in the Community of Lake Shastina.
 According to the California Fire Prevention Council, fireworks cause hundreds of fires each year that cause millions of dollars in damage.
 Cal Fire issued a fireworks safety bulletin encouraging everyone to find alternative ways to celebrate the 4th of July other than the use of fireworks.
The State Fire Marshall also offered the following safety tips concerning fireworks use:
• Always read the directions.
• Always have an adult present to supervise.
• Use fireworks outdoors.
• Never use fireworks near dry grass or flammables.
• Light only one at a time.
• Keep at a safe distance.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never experiment with fireworks.
• Have a bucket of water and hose handy.
• Never attempt to re-light or fix fireworks.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing.
• Never carry fireworks in your pockets.
• Fireworks are not toys.
• Use only State Fire Marshall approved fireworks.
If you have any questions regarding the use of fireworks in your community please call your local fire or law enforcement agency.
Parents are liable for any damage or injuries caused by their children using fireworks.