July 22, 2009 > Illegal Fireworks Mitigation Program
Illegal Fireworks Mitigation Program
Over the 4th of July weekend, the Milpitas Fire Department coordinated operations aimed at reducing or eliminating the use of illegal fireworks within the City.
With the cooperation of the Milpitas Police Department, the Spring Valley Volunteer Fire Department, and members of both the RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services) teams and the SAFE (Strategic Actions for Emergencies) teams, the Milpitas Fire Department was successful in recovering fireworks from 6 different locations including 33 pounds of illegal fireworks totaling 606 pieces, including commercial grade aerial fireworks.
The cooperative, team approach between all agencies acted as a force multiplier in responding to citizen calls for service and aided in increasing safety within the community.
One significant fireworks injury was noted on July 3. A law enforcement investigation is pending completion.
There was one reported grass fire approximately 20 feet long by 20 feet wide as a result of fireworks in the area of Sinclair Frontage at Ames.