California implements safety measures ahead of Fourth of July celebrations

As Californians prepare for the Fourth of July holiday, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced various safety measures to ensure public safety during the celebrations. The state is focusing on wildfire prevention, road safety, and heat alerts as part of its efforts.

Governor Newsom emphasized that human activities are responsible for about 95% of all wildfires in California. These fires often result from preventable actions such as improperly extinguished campfires and illegal fireworks. The governor reminded residents that "the state has no tolerance for illegal fireworks." So far this year, authorities have seized over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks. Violators may face fines up to $50,000 or a year in jail.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will implement a Holiday Enforcement Period from Thursday evening through Sunday night to monitor distracted and dangerous drivers. Last year, there were 29 fatalities and over 1,300 DUI arrests during the same period.

California has introduced CalHeatScore, a tool designed to protect vulnerable populations from extreme heatwaves by providing localized warnings and resources. Residents can access heat safety information online.

Californians are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at listoscalifornia.org/alerts. The Disaster Ready Guide offers additional information on emergency preparedness.

State officials also urge those planning outdoor activities to carry extra supplies and stay informed about weather conditions. Visitors to California's state parks should be mindful of their environmental impact by staying on trails and properly managing campfires.

With rising temperatures expected, parents are advised not to leave children or pets unsupervised near water or in hot vehicles.