Cal Fire warns of fireworks dangers ahead of July 4th

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Cal Fire says this fire season is growing faster than what they've seen in recent years here in San Diego — and adding fireworks to the mix could have devastating consequences.

Firefighters are asking the public to leave fireworks to the professionals this Independence Day and want to remind everyone that it is illegal to set off fireworks in San Diego, even “Safe and Sane” fireworks. The only legal fireworks are large displays.

In a matter of seconds, what should be a bright and bold celebration of our country's independence can lead to injury or an unintentional fire.

“Three minutes seems like a very short time until an ambulance arrives, and then time stops,” said Holly Carr, mother of a burn survivor.

She shared her 5-year-old's story Tuesday at a news conference in Sacramento focused on preventing injuries and fires from fireworks.

“A little spark went off, hit my five-year-old daughter's hand and made it go over her polyester party skirt. When I say it took a few seconds for that skirt to disappear, I mean it,” Carr said.

Those few seconds of sparkler fun landed her child in the emergency room, fighting for his life.

“Was this a freak accident? Absolutely. Can it happen again? 100 percent. Be safe this Fourth of July and keep your kids away from fire,” Carr said.

But injuries aren't the only concern. With numerous wildfires raging across the state, a heat wave and drought conditions, the addition of illegal fireworks could have devastating consequences.

“The area that’s burned statewide is five times the five-year average, so we’re seeing these fires spread much faster,” said Thomas Shoots, a San Diego County fire captain with Cal Fire.