SAN ANTONIO – Don't put an unhappy ending to your 4th of July by getting caught for illegally using fireworks within the San Antonio city limits.
The San Antonio Fire Department is reminding the public that the purchase, transport or use of fireworks will result in a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a fine of up to $2,000.
SAFD will have a fireworks hotline open from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4th for residents to report illegal firework use. The number to call is 207-0202.
Last July 4th, 12 citations were issued and there were 15 confiscations. In addition, San Antonio firefighters were called to 26 brush and grass fires and 10 trash fires that may have been caused by fireworks.
According to the National Fire Association, about 17,800 fires in 2011 were blamed on fireworks. Fires caused 40 injuries and $32 million in property damage. In 2012, about 8,200 people were hospitalized for firework-related injuries.
SAFD encourages residents to attend public events showcasing fireworks. For a list of events in San Antonio, click here.
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