Santa Maria using three-fold approach to fireworks this year through education, enforcement, entertainment

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – With the 4th of July approaching, the City of Santa Maria is rolling out a three-pronged approach regarding fireworks this year, which includes education, enforcement and entertainment.

At tonight's City Council meeting, a presentation will be given by Santa Maria Public Information Manager Mark van de Kamp on what efforts are being made by the city to keep the public safe.

To help inform the public about important information dealing with fireworks, a bilingual educational campaign is now underway.

As in previous years, information is being disseminated to the public through television and radio public service announcements (PSAs), social media posts, flyers, posters and other forms of communication.

The Santa Maria Police Department recently started its Fireworks Enforcement Operation for 2024, with officers monitoring social media for fireworks sales and actively patrolling neighborhoods for fireworks usage.

The City of Santa Maria has also created a new event called "The 4th of July “Tech-tacular” Drone Show & Festival," to bring the community together on Independence Day as a way to celebrate the holiday in a safe and responsible manner.

The free event will be held at Elks Field, located behind the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center and will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

For more information on the Santa Maria's fireworks outreach efforts, be sure to watch News Channel 3-12 today.