SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air District urges residents to celebrate responsibly this Fourth of July by avoiding personal fireworks, which can elevate air pollution and increase wildfire danger. Fireworks release smoke and fine particulate matter pollution, contributing to temporary spikes in unhealthy air quality.
“Fireworks may seem festive, but they not only pollute the air we breathe but also raise the risk of wildfires,” said Dr. Philip Fine, executive officer of the Bay Area Air District. “As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July this weekend, let’s all do our part to keep the air clean and our communities safe by not lighting personal fireworks.”
At the local level, these pollutants can worsen respiratory conditions, aggravate heart disease, and cause coughing, wheezing, and eye irritation. Children, seniors, and those with preexisting health concerns are especially vulnerable. Fireworks not only impact public health, but they can lead to brush, structure, or wildland fires—causing property damage and even greater air pollution.
Bay Area residents are encouraged to check local event listings or city government websites to locate organized firework displays.
Contra Costa County Fire Reminds Public All Fireworks Are Illegal
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District reminds the public that all fireworks – even “Safe and Sane” ones – are illegal in Contra Costa County.
This 4th of July, let’s work together to prevent fires and injuries by leaving the shows to the pros! Check out these approved fireworks shows happening around the District:
- Contra Costa Country Club
- Martinez – Waterfront Park
- Antioch – Historic Rivertown District
- Pittsburg – Marina
- Pleasant Hill – College Park High School
- Concord – Mt. Diablo High School
- Hercules – Bayfront Blvd
In 2024, CONFIRE reported a 30% increase in activity on the July 4 holiday when compared to last year. The District brought in 2-3 extra dispatchers and answered 1,104 calls between 10:00 am to 3:00 am. On a normal day, the call volume is around a couple hundred calls—July 4 was nearly 4x the norm.
Calls included:
- 92 total fire (exterior) calls
- 16 vegetation fires
- 13 structure fires
- 128 medical calls.
- 60 other calls along with 8 other fire calls.
A total of 317 incidents were dispatched with a majority of those being EMS or fire related calls that have something to do with the activities on the July 4 holiday.
To report illegal fireworks, call 833-885-2021.
