250 years ago our Continental Congress adopted a Declaration of Independence, assserting that the 13 colonies were united, free, and independent states and that our people were not subjects of a king. Local control was a great idea in 1776 and it still is. Here's to a happy Independence Day, free of illegal fireworks*!

* To report illegal fireworks: call 916-874-5115, email fireworks@sacsheriff.com, or use the 311 Connect App. Per Supervisor Desmond's newsletter, only Safe and Sane fireworks (those bearing the State Fire Marshall's seal) are allowed and they may only be used between 9am and 10pm. Fireworks are not allowed after July 4th. Fireworks that go up in the air are illegal and dangerous. All reports are confidential. Enforcement can result in hefty fines. The County says, "...reports from residents play a critical role in helping enforcement personnel identify and address dangerous fireworks activity before it leads to injuries, property damage, or wildfires. To improve the likelihood of successful enforcement action, Sacramento County Code Enforcement recommends providing:

• A video or photograph of the illegal fireworks activity
• Eyewitness statements
• The specific address where the activity occurred."