Illegal fireworks have been a problem in the city for decades, according to Julie Freestone, who launched a campaign in 2025 to address the issue after experiencing it firsthand.
"I just said to myself, if I am standing here next year on July 4th screaming, I will have only myself to blame if I don't do anything," Freestone said.
Freestone said she often watched embers from fireworks fall into her backyard, raising fears of a potential fire.
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Data from the National Fire Protection Association underscores those concerns.
In 2023, fireworks were responsible for more than 30,000 fires nationwide, leading to 15 deaths and 58 injuries. Nearly one-third of those injured were children.
"They're not fun. They're dangerous. They burn people, they kill people, they burn down neighborhoods. It's a major problem. And then PTSD, they're loud. They sound like gunfire," Freestone said.
In response, Richmond police are increasing enforcement efforts this year, including the use of technology to identify offenders.
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The department has assigned a full-time drone officer for the 4th of July to help track where illegal fireworks are being set off.
"Unfortunately, it's a chronic problem throughout the Bay Area to include Richmond, but we're trying our best to make an impact to have it stopped," said Lt. Joe England with the Richmond Police Department.
Drone footage will allow officers to locate and document violations in real time, even if suspects are not immediately caught.
"That officer is going to be our person that's going to tell us where these illegal fireworks are coming from. And most importantly, he has a capability of recording," England said.
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Officials say that evidence gathered could lead to a summons or an officer knocking at your door days later.
Police are also placing signs in English and Spanish across the city to remind residents that illegal fireworks can result in fines of up to $1,000. Freestone said lasting change will require a community-wide effort.
"We will never get a cultural change unless we all work on this together," she said.
For those seeking a safer alternative, a permitted fireworks event is scheduled in Richmond on July 3.