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Berkeley,
California (Tuesday, July 3, 2007) - Berkeley
residents are being reminded that especially in this dry fire
season, there are no safe fireworks.
"The Marina is a great place to celebrate
the Fourth of July safely," said Berkeley Fire Marshal Gil Dong.
"But right now, it's hot
and dry, and fireworks aren't safe."
The ban against fireworks will be strictly
enforced, according to the Berkeley Fire Department and the Berkeley
Police Department. So-called "Safe and Sane" fireworks,
including sparklers, are also prohibited and are a fire
hazard.
Between 2003-2005, there were five building and
outdoor fires caused by fireworks in the City of Berkeley. An
average of seven people are killed annually as a direct result of
fireworks in California.
The City of
Berkeley invites the public to an exciting day of activities on July
4th at the Berkeley Marina. There is no charge for admission
to this alcohol-free event, which will run from noon until 10:00
p.m. Activities will include entertainers, arts & crafts,
free sailboat rides, free dragon boat rides, and a fireworks show
off the end of the Berkeley Pier at 9:30 p.m. For more information,
visit the City's Community Calendar at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/communitycalendar/default.asp.
A few notes about getting to the Marina:
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University Avenue will be closed from West
Frontage Road to the Marina at this time. Pedestrians will have
access to these roadways throughout the event.
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Access from I-80 into the City of Berkeley
will be closed from University Avenue and from Gilman Street
during the fireworks display.
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Access to the fishing pier will be closed
to pedestrians at approximately 5 p.m. in preparation for the
show.
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Cars will not be allowed in after 7 p.m.
and will not be allowed out until after 10:00 p.m.
You can help keep our community safe by:
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Not using any type of fireworks;
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Calling the police to report use of
fireworks by others;
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Reducing fuel sources by keeping grass and
vegetation cut back;
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Have fire extinguishers and garden hoses
ready.
BPD will have extra officers working on July 4,
and will be arresting and citing violators. Possession of M-80’s,
M-1000’s and Rocket type fireworks is a felony.
To notify BPD about illegal fireworks use, call
981-5900, or 981-5911 via cell phone. If you have question
concerning the possession or use of fireworks, please call our
Community Services Bureau at 981-5806.
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