Stands offering ‘safe and sane’ fireworks beckon buyers as holiday nears

The sale of “safe and sane” fireworks began Thursday at stands scattered throughout Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach.

Fireworks that stay on the ground as opposed to those typically used in fireworks shows are deemed “safe and sane,” among them sparklers, snakes and fountains. They are available for sale in Huntington Beach and Costa Mesa and can be used in both cities.

Many of the sales are offered, with city permitting, by local youth sports, youth clubs and nonprofit groups to raise funds for their programs. More than 30 groups are permitted to sell fireworks in Costa Mesa, while 15 are permitted in Huntington Beach.

Jen Valdez, left, and Lexi Hawlish restock fireworks at the Estancia High School Cheerleader stand.

(Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer)

Law enforcement officials have confiscated hundreds of illegal fireworks in the weeks leading up to the holiday weekend.

Fireworks are banned in Fountain Valley, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. Residents in those cities are encouraged to reach out to their police departments’ respective non-emergency lines if they know the exact location of any illegal use.

The Daily Pilot published a roundup of local fireworks shows and events for this Fourth of July that appeared in print Friday and can be read online this weekend.

Jen Valdez, left, and Judy Hess arrange fireworks at the Estancia High School Cheerleader fireworks stand in Costa Mesa.

(Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer)

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