Firefighters caution fire danger as fireworks sales launch in North Bay

SARATOGA, Calif. (KGO) -- Firefighters in the North Bay aren't just worried about heat and dry brush this season, but also the many ways that brush might erupt and on Tuesday, fireworks became an added concern.

Several fireworks stands opened in Marin and Sonoma counties Tuesday. With July 4 nearing, they're getting plenty of business, especially from cities and counties where such fireworks are banned.

Robin Manhollan came to Petaluma from Vallejo, where fireworks are illegal, to buy safe and sane fireworks.

Manhollan said she plans to set off her fireworks at the same time as city puts on its waterfront display.

The fireworks stands are a source of frustration for Santa Rosa Fire Marshal Paul Lowenthal. The city that banned safe and sane fireworks following the Lofty Perch Fire in 2003 that burned a home, injured firefighters and consumed 42 acres. Some kids started it after playing with those so-called safe and sane fireworks.

"You could have a smoke bomb. They seem safe, they seem sane, but a smoke bomb rolling down the hill and bounces in the grass and then you've got a problem," he said.

So it's important to exercise caution and realize that playing with fireworks is like playing with fire.

Click here for a list of things to do this Fourth of July.