RIVERSIDE – (INT) – Government, law enforcement and fire officials are regrouping in their annual effort to end the scourge of illegal fireworks.

This summer’s message in Riverside County is 'If You Light it, We'll Write It’.

Fines for violating city and county ordinances have been sharply increased in some cases to $1,000 for first time offences.

Fireworks have been heard and seen almost nightly in some neighborhoods since Easter and authorities fear they will build to a climax for the Fourth of July.

Riverside County’s effort to combat the sale, transportation and use of illegal fireworks includes public service announcements, billboards, road signs, vehicle clings and social media messaging.

County departments collaborating on this year’s initiative include the Sheriff’s Department, Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Animal Services, Riverside University Health System and Veterans Services.

Story Date: July 6, 2021