Bring in 2017 by celebrating responsibly. Celebratory gunfire is illegal and dangerous. . .DON’T SHOOT! (Contributed Photo)
By G. T. Houts
Mountain Communities – Mountain residents are urged to refrain from one dangerous end-of-year tradition. . . celebratory gunfire. Celebrate responsibly by starting 2017 with a bullet free sky!
Firing a gun at the stroke of midnight to bring in 2017 is prohibited by law. . .it’s against the law! DON’T SHOOT!(Contributed Photo)
Local law enforcement agencies will be on the lookout for mountain residents and visitors who try to ring in 2017 with celebratory gunfire.
The practice of firing a weapon in the air, not knowing where the bullet may fall, could ultimately take an innocent life.
Property damage is sometimes another result of celebratory gunfire; shattered windows and damaged roofs are often found after such celebrations.
One suggestion is to ring in 2017 with a bell or noisemaker. . . DON’T SHOOT!
LOCAL LAWS
In California, discharging a firearm into the air is a felony, punishable by three years in state prison. If the stray bullet kills someone, the shooter can be charged with murder. The California Penal Code prohibits “negligent discharging of firearms.” In addition to a felony arrest, law enforcement officials may confiscate the firearm.
In addition, discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun in the San Bernardino National Forest is illegal, except for the lawful hunting or in areas designated as recreational shooting ranges.
FIREWORKS
Fireworks to bring in the New Year are also prohibited in the San Bernardino National Forest. In fact, fireworks are always outlawed in the San Bernardino National Forest.
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