Carson Places Fireworks Ban on Ballot

Carson voters will get a chance Nov. 6 to say whether they want to ban the sale of all fireworks in the city.

In a 4-to-1 vote, the Carson City Council decided Tuesday to place an advisory measure on the general election ballot. Opposing the measure was Councilwoman Sylvia Muise, who said the council should ban fireworks immediately in order to prevent fires and accidents.

At the council meeting, supporters of so-called “safe and sane” fireworks, which are legal to sell in Carson, pleaded for the council to maintain the status quo.

They said that accidents are almost always caused by illegal fireworks, such as M-80s and bottle rockets, and that fireworks sales support community groups that otherwise would be forced to reduce their activities.

The Los Angeles Fire Department, which serves Carson, opposes the sale and use of any fireworks by private individuals. Fire officials say “safe and sane”--as well as illegal--fireworks cause accidents.