Extra Patrols Planned to Curb Illegal 4th of July Fireworks

For anyone who missed the public service announcements, the fliers or the smattering of red posters hung along the beach, more than three dozen people in uniform have a reminder: Don’t light that fuse.

Ventura officials are serious this Fourth of July about keeping illegal fireworks out of the city. Responding to increased use of fireworks in town and near the harbor, 35 extra police officers and fire officials will be patrolling streets and beaches for the contraband this weekend, a police spokesman said.

The price of illicit pyrotechnics: a $250 to $1,000 fine.

“We really wanted to take a look at this from a community problem-solving standpoint,” said Ventura Police Lt. Bryan Roberts, who heads the joint fire-police department enforcement effort. “On the Fourth of July, there’s a significant increase of calls for service ... 911 calls almost double.”

In addition to increased patrols, bike police and fire code enforcers will be out in higher numbers. Roberts said Buenaventura State Beach, between the harbor and the pier, will be watched especially closely.

Oxnard police said they will also increase patrols in beach areas during the holiday, when crimes and noise complaints tend to spike.

Fireworks of any type are illegal to buy or use without a permit in all of Ventura County, except Fillmore. Fireworks purchased there may not be used elsewhere in the county.