Escondido officials warn residents against illegal fireworks ahead of holidays

Lavonna Koretsky, deputy fire marshal with the Escondido Fire Department, urged residents in a city public safety announcement to avoid illegal fireworks, saying they can cause injury and start wildfires.

"We all know everyone loves to celebrate. However, the illegal use of fireworks is a safety concern," Koretsky said. "The potential to hurt yourself, your neighbors, or start a wildfire is great and just not worth the risk."

Mary Consuelo Martinez, introduced in the announcement as a council member, reminded listeners that fireworks are prohibited within the city. She said residents should use public displays and report illegal activity.

"As your neighbor and fellow Escondido resident, I want to remind our community that fireworks are illegal in the city of Escondido," Martinez said. "With the holidays coming up, let's keep the celebration going, but let's not ruin it for everyone else. Fireworks can be dangerous, and they pose serious risks of fire and harm to our community."

Martinez noted the effects on vulnerable groups and animals, saying the noise and danger can affect "our neighbors, veterans, our pets, and people sensitive to loud noises," and urged residents to "leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy the public displays instead." She directed residents to report illegal fireworks to the Escondido Police non-emergency line and to provide exact locations when calling (the announcement did not specify the phone number).

The announcement was presented as a public-safety reminder rather than a formal council action. No ordinance citation or penalty details were provided in the announcement.