Two Fires Caused by Illegal Use of Fireworks on the 4^th of July

On Saturday, July 4, 2026, shortly after 1:00 p.m., the Santa Rosa Fire Department (SRFD) responded to multiple 911 calls for a vegetation fire in a field at the intersection of Kawana Terrace and Franz Kafka Avenue. SRFD quickly arrived and extinguished a 60’ by 60’ area of dry mowed seasonal grasses. The fire damaged a vehicle parked on Kawana Terrace. No injuries were reported. Santa Rosa Fire Investigators worked with Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) and have determined that the fire was caused by the illegal use of fireworks.

SRFD and SRPD responded to a second vegetation fire at 9:40 p.m. in a field to the east of Flapjack Way and Common Way. Firefighters quickly extinguished a 30’ by 30’ area of dry seasonal grass. No property damage occurred and no injuries were reported. SRPD and SRFD investigated the incident and determined that the fire was caused by the illegal use of fireworks.

Both fires remain under investigation. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the SRPD tipline at 707-543-3575.

The SRFD and SRPD remind everyone that all fireworks are illegal in the City of Santa Rosa, including those labeled "Safe and Sane." As this year's Fourth of July demonstrated, a single firework can quickly spark a fire that has the potential to threaten homes, neighborhoods, and lives. Every illegal firework puts people across Santa Rosa at risk, including residents, firefighters, and first responders working to keep our community safe. Protecting Santa Rosa is a shared responsibility, and the safest choice is to leave fireworks to professionally permitted public displays.