Celebrate Independence Day Safely in Ventura County

On Monday, July 4, 2011, we celebrate our country's 235th birthday.  With our state in a drought situation, brush can quickly catch fire.  Fireworks that aren't sanctioned by local authorities are still illegal throughout California.  In fact, anyone caught with illegal fireworks in their possession can face up to a $1000 fine and may even go to jail for up to a year.  Celebrate Independence Day safely in Ventura County by attending one of these public fireworks shows (all shows begin promptly at dusk):

JULY 3, 2011
Moorpark - Arroya Vista Community Park (4550 Tierra Rejada Rd)

JULY 4, 2011
Camarillo - Camarillo High School (4660 Mission Oaks)
Fillmore - Fillmore Middle School (543 A St)
Ojai - Nordhoff High School (414 E Ojai Ave)
Oxnard - Over Channel Islands Harbor
Santa Paula - Harding Park (1300 Harvard Blvd)
Simi Valley - Rancho Santa Susana Community Park (5005 E Los Angeles Ave)
Thousand Oaks - Just to the north of Oaks Mall (350 W Hillcrest Dr)
Ventura - Ventura College (4667 Telegraph Rd)

Not all fireworks are illegal in Ventura County.  To make sure that you are purchasing fireworks that are OK for home use, look for the "Safe and Sane" seal from the State Fire Marshal.  If you do plan on celebrating with your own legal fireworks at your Ventura home, read over the directions thoroughly first.  Only light your fireworks in an area cleared of any dry brush or other combustible materials.  Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case a fire does break out.  Never make any "modifications" to fireworks.  They should be used according to their printed directions.

Remember, what goes up must come down.  This goes for fireworks and gunfire.  Whatever you shoot up in the air is going to come down somewhere.  Please keep this in mind before shooting anything into the air.  Celebrate Independence Day safely in Ventura County.  Happy Birthday, America!