San Carlos: Juveniles set off fireworks at Burton Park

in Community/Crime

Despite a heat advisory and red flag warning due to heightened risk of fires, juveniles reportedly started a small brush fire Monday when lighting fireworks at Burton Park in San Carlos, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office.

The person who reported the incident at 5:52 p.m. said the small fire started in the mulch area of the park’s landscape. That person reportedly stomped some of the smoldering mulch out.

The group of juveniles responsible for the fireworks fled on bicycles prior to deputies arriving and have not been identified, according to the sheriff’s office, which added that evidence and video surveillance of the incident have been collected for further investigation.

Authorities are talking about the incident to warn the public about the potential for such illegal activity to create a significant problem.

“With weather conditions being what they are, the risk of fire increases drastically…a simple spark could cause a major fire, including the use of equipment and machinery as well as smoking,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “Increased complaints of illegal fireworks have been a constant burden to emergency services in the City of San Carlos over the Summer months. Parents can help by reminding their children not to light fireworks and by being aware of what their children are doing outside of the house.”

Anyone who has information regarding this incident may call the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Anonymous Tip Line at 1-800-547-2700.