Hollister Fire Department resources responded to a number of fireworks related incidents over the Independence Day weekend, including illegal firework enforcement and two confirmed structure fires.
The HFD Prevention Bureau and Municipal Code Enforcement responded to 47 reports of illegal fireworks and received 110 notifications through MyPD App and seized approximately 10 pounds of illegal fireworks from July 1-4, though no citations were issued, according to a press release. The penalty for possession of illegal fireworks is a fine of $1,000, $1,500, and $2,000 (HMC 8.08.010 Fireworks Sale/Possession).
The fire department also responded to two “significant” structure fires in the city on July 4, both of which involved the roof and attic area. One fire originated on the roof and the other originated at the side of the house and fence. Both fires are still under investigation, officials say, but all indicators point to fireworks as the “probable cause” of the fires. Property loss is estimated to be approximately $500,000 and no injuries were sustained by residents or firefighters.
The fires were at the following locations:
- 1600 block of Clearview Dr. (Roof) Time of Call 11:38 p.m.
- 1600 block of Quail Run (Attic fire/garage/bedrooms) Time of Call 11:43 p.m.