SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — To demonstrate the hazards of illegal fireworks, firefighters in Santa Clarita detonated watermelons and ignited clothing with the mere touch of a sparkler.

Officials are reminding residents that all fireworks are illegal in the city, including those labeled “safe and sane,” like sparklers and bottle rockets. 

The fine for having illegal fireworks is $500 for the first offense and $1,000 each time after that.

Standing at the base of a parched Towsley canyon, Henry Narvaez, a spokesperson for the LA County Fire Department, urged residents to follow the rules, not just to protect themselves from injury but because we are amid a historic drought.

“Just one spark and a little bit of wind and it will run right on through here like it does every year,” Narvaez said.

To report illegal fireworks, call the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at 661-260-4000.