‘Work it

Jose J. Santos

If you love setting off fireworks, Costa Mesa is your kind of town.

The city is one of five in Orange County that still let residents

buy and discharge their own fireworks.

“We haven’t had any major incidents,” Fire Chief Jim Ellis said.

Aside from the occasional trash fire, Ellis said residents have taken

care not to let the party get out of hand. “People have become more

and more responsible over the years.”

When the sun goes down on the Fourth and the home fireworks show

begins, there are some things to remember to guarantee the safety of

the people in your neighborhood.

KEEP IT LEGAL

Ellis said people should only purchase “safe and sane” fireworks.

These products carry a seal of approval from the state fire marshal.

“They don’t explode like a firecracker. They don’t launch in the

air,” Ellis said.

Fireworks stands in Costa Mesa are required to sell “safe and

sane” fireworks and to display their city permits. If residents

purchase products from these dealers, they’ll be safe.

PICK A BOSS

Adults should be the ones handling and discharging fireworks,

Ellis said. Block parties and front lawn displays are popular, but

one person should be responsible for making sure the show is safe.

Ellis recommends having a five-gallon bucket of water handy to

throw fireworks into after they’re lit. This will help prevent trash

fires.

KNOW THE RULES

* Fireworks stands are allowed to sell products starting Tuesday,

July 1, between 9 a.m. and midnight, depending on the dealer.

* No one younger than 18 is allowed to buy fireworks without a

parent or guardian.

* Fireworks should only be discharged on the Fourth of July

between 4 and 10 p.m.

* Throwing, tossing or projecting an ignited firework at anybody

or their property will get you into trouble.

* Avoid lighting fireworks in parks or any other undesignated

public spaces.

“The most important things to remember are to use safety, common

sense and enjoy the holiday,” Ellis said.