Fires, missing fingers, $10k fines. Stanislaus residents warned on fireworks
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- Modesto and Stanislaus County fire and police agencies increase July 4 patrols.
- Fines for illegal fireworks in Modesto reach up to $10,000 per violation.
- Fire officials warn hot, dry weather heightens risk of structure and grass fires.
As Independence Day approaches, public safety agencies across Modesto and Stanislaus County are ramping up patrols, expanding staffing and urging residents to think twice before lighting up the sky with illegal fireworks.
The Fourth of July period brings a surge in emergency calls each year — and law enforcement and fire officials say 2025 is shaping up no differently. From $10,000 fines to wildfire risk warnings, authorities are delivering a clear message: Fireworks can be dangerous, and the consequences of misuse are real.
Police to patrol with help from the sky
The Modesto Police Department will deploy extra patrols around the July Fourth holiday to crack down on the use of illegal fireworks. Officers will also use Sky-1, the department’s aerial surveillance support unit, to help locate violations in real time.
“Our focus will be on deterring illegal activity, issuing citations and using Sky-1 to patrol from the sky to assist ground units,” said department spokesperson Sharon Bear.
Bear said the most commonly seized illegal fireworks include aerials such as mortars and Roman candles, along with M80s, M100s and bottle rockets — all banned within Modesto city limits. Many are brought in from out of state or sold by unlicensed local dealers.
Last year, Modesto police issued 52 citations for illegal fireworks, totaling $96,000 in fines. The penalties are steep: $2,000 for a first offense, $3,000 for a second offense within 36 months, and $4,000 for each subsequent violation. Manufacturing or selling illegal fireworks can lead to fines of $10,000 per violation.
Residents can report illegal fireworks through the department’s nonemergency line at 209-552-2470, the GoModesto! app, or Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Bear urged the public to call 911 only in emergencies.
Sheriff’s Office targets contract cities
In unincorporated parts of Stanislaus County, the Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols in its contract cities, Waterford, Patterson, Riverbank and Hughson. These areas tend to see more complaints due to their population density, according to Sgt. Erich Layton.
“Confirmed that those cities are scheduling additional deputies to respond to fireworks calls and be on the lookout for misuse,” Layton said. “The concentration of homes increases the likelihood of structure fires.”
Layton added that while rural areas pose their own risks, many of the most serious incidents in recent years have occurred in residential communities. Improper use of fireworks, he said, can strain local resources and delay emergency response.
“Misuse of legal or illegal fireworks poses a threat to first-responder times to incidents,” Layton said. “Paramedics, fire departments and law enforcement can become stretched thin due to the number of reports or confirmed incidents”
The Turlock Police Department warns on social media that “If it launches, explodes, or whistles — it’s illegal in Turlock. Fines start at $1,000 for the first offense, $1,500 for the second, and $2,000 for each one after that.
“PLEASE NOTE: You can be cited even if you’re not the one lighting them. Property owners and party hosts can be held responsible.”
Fire agencies warn of weather, dry fuels
For fire agencies, the biggest concern is what happens after the spark.
“Even legal fireworks can ignite fires when used improperly or near dry grass and structures,” said Capt. Joseph Spani of the Modesto Fire Department. “With temperatures nearing triple digits and low humidity, conditions are primed for fires to spread quickly.”
Spani said Modesto Fire will increase staffing around the holiday, including more firefighters on engines and three additional battalion chiefs. The department is also working with police and city officials to educate residents and offer drop-off sites for the voluntary surrender of illegal fireworks.
“We want the public to know what’s legal, what’s not, and how to dispose of fireworks safely,” Spani said.
The Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District, which covers a wide stretch of the county including suburban, commercial and wildland areas, is also preparing for what could be one of the busiest weekends of the year.
“In recent years, we’ve seen a significant increase in call volume during the Fourth of July holiday,” Capt. Jon McManus said. “That includes trash fires, vegetation fires, structure fires and injuries due to improper use.”
The district is adding staff and coordinating with law enforcement agencies to respond to fireworks-related incidents. McManus said illegal fireworks can be surrendered at any district fire station, no questions asked.
Safety tips and final reminders
Authorities urge residents to use only “Safe and Sane” fireworks that carry the California State Fire Marshal seal — and only between July 1 and July 4.
Key safety tips include:
Never use fireworks near dry grass, trees or buildings
Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby
Soak used fireworks in water before disposal
Closely supervise children
Never attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks
“One spark is all it takes,” McManus said. “What starts as a celebration can turn into a tragedy if people don’t take basic precautions.”
This story was originally published June 26, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
