The Turlock Fire Department is reminding Turlockers to stay safe and use only fireworks approved by the State of California Fire Marshall this Independence Day.

Fireworks that fly into the air or explode are considered illegal and are highly dangerous, but with weather forecasts predicting temperatures reaching upwards of triple-digits and low humidity, all fireworks can be considered dangerous.

On July 4, 2013, the Turlock Fire Department responded to 62 calls for service. Compared to an average day, about 16 calls for service, there is a huge increase in calls around the holiday.

Nationally, there were about 9,600 firework-related injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms in 2011, according to the National Fire Protection Association. That same year, there were also 17,800 fires caused by fireworks that caused $32 million in direct damage.

Both the Turlock Police and Fire departments will be on high alert for illegal fireworks and any citizens who use illegal fireworks can be issued a citation which can result in a fine.

If you want to report illegal fireworks, call 209-668-1200.

The Turlock Fire Department also has the following tips to have a safe Fourth of July:

• Fireworks should always be used with extreme caution and should only be handled by adults.
• Before using fireworks, read and follow all warnings and instructions printed on the label.
• Only light fireworks outdoors, in a clear area away from structures such as houses and buildings, and flammable materials such as gasoline cans or lighter fluid.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergency or to douse fireworks that do not ignite.
• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in water and throw them away.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially ones made of glass or metal.
• Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Only State Fire Marshall approved “Safe and Sane Fireworks” are allowed in the City of Turlock.
• Piccolo Pete’s and/or Whistling Pete’s are illegal in the City of Turlock, as are any fireworks that have been modified or altered. This includes fireworks which fly into the air or explode. You may be cited with a misdemeanor or infraction if found in possession of these types of fireworks.