Every year around the Fourth of July, dispatchers at the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station receive a flood of calls that sound something like: “I hear fireworks somewhere.”

While fireworks are a common holiday tradition, officials are reminding residents that calling 911 simply because fireworks can be heard in the area ties up emergency lines that may be needed for life-threatening situations.

The Sheriff’s Station issued its annual reminder that all fireworks are illegal within the city of Santa Clarita — including so-called “safe and sane” fireworks purchased elsewhere.

Residents are urged to call 911 only for true emergencies, including:

• Someone is injured.
• A firework sparks a brush or structure fire.
• A home or building is on fire.
• There is an immediate threat to life or property.

If residents know the specific location where fireworks are being used, they are encouraged to report it through the Sheriff’s Station’s non-emergency line at 661-260-4000.

Reports can also be submitted through the “Illegal Fireworks” category on the City of Santa Clarita mobile app or through the Resident Service Center to help law enforcement identify problem areas.

Looking for a safe way to celebrate? Enjoy the city of Santa Clarita’s annual Fourth of July Fireworks Show at Valencia Town Center, 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia. It is scheduled for 9:15 p.m.

Officials are reminding residents to leave the fireworks to the professionals, helping keep neighborhoods safer for families, pets and first responders during the holiday.

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