With the Fourth of July approaching, authorities in Simi Valley are cracking down on the use of illegal fireworks.

The Simi Valley Police Department, in cooperation with the Ventura County Fire Department, has begun a zerotolerance policy, promising to cite anyone found using or in possession of illegal fireworks.

The average fine is around $850, while misdemeanor fines can exceed $1,000.

"To prevent injuries and damage, it's very important to enforce these laws," Sgt. Adam Darough said.

In addition to extra street patrols citywide beginning June 28, the department is again offering a fireworks hotline where citizens can call to report firework use in progress or, more importantly, said Darough, planned firework activity.

That hotline number is (805) 583-6151.

"We're asking people, if there is a house that usually participates in the use of fireworks this time of year, go ahead and give us a call," Darough said. "It's a proactive step to discourage the use of fireworks."

Last year there were 368 calls made to the Simi police for service involving fireworks, resulting in 26 citations issued. So far in 2008, 56 similar calls have been made, resulting in one citation.

"We issue citations depending on the situation," Darough said. "If it's a kid with a sparkler, then we'll give them a warning. If it's a kid with a trunk full of fireworks, then it's a citation."

Darough said the department is committed to preventing a recurrence of 2006, when one house was lost and another severely damaged from fires believed to be started by fireworks.

With limited rainfall leaving the area dry to the bone, the chance of another such incident happening is all too real, Darough said.

Bill Nash, Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson, said that residents who break the law and use illegal fireworks are financially responsible for any collateral damage they may cause.

"Anyone who starts a fire through fireworks, whether accidental or not, they can be held for damage cost and fire suppression cost," Nash said.

Nash said he recommends county residents look for other ways to celebrate on the Fourth.

"I think fireworks are exciting; they are a great way to celebrate," Nash said. "But there is no getting around the fact that they are illegal in Ventura County. Outside of the city limits of Fillmore, all fireworks are illegal, including the so-called 'Safe and Sane' variety."

Citizens with knowledge of planned illegal fireworks activity are encouraged to call the fireworks hotline and anonymously leave a detailed message.

For more information on fireworks enforcement, call the Simi Valley police station at (805) 583-6950.

In a Nutshell

Use of fireworks poses a significant fire hazard because of the extremely dry conditions caused by the drought in Southern California. Simi Valley residents who have information about planned use of unlawful fireworks may report the activity by calling the anonymous tip line, (805) 583-6151.