VOICES--The 4th of July holiday is approaching! Although fireworks are fun to look at, we must be mindful that they are very dangerous and illegal.
Enforced by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department, the City’s Municipal Code (section 57.5608.1.2) makes it a misdemeanor to use, sell, or discharge fireworks in the City of Los Angeles. This misdemeanor is punishable by a fine ranging from $500 to $1000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
As an agency devoted to promoting fire safety, MySafeLA is the point of contact on these efforts to educate the public. Since its inception, MySafeLA has distributed 130 banners to local fire stations and police bureaus; 400 posters to Los Angeles Unified School District schools; and 3,640 bumper stickers to students and families. This is in addition to the media coverage the campaign received through local news affiliates and publications.
You can also help spread the word regarding the importance of MySafeLA’s work on firework safety by placing a lawn sign in your yard or window. This sign will serve as a reminder that fireworks are not only disruptive to your neighbors and our animal companions, they are also illegal. The sign lists a phone number that you can call to report the use of dangerous explosive devices. You can print your own lawn sign here.
Let’s keep our neighborhood fireworks-free this year! Protect your family, your pets, and your home. If you see any illegal activity regarding the devices, please do not hesitate to call 877-275-5273.
Happy 4th of July!
MITCH O’FARRELL
(Mitch O’Farrell is Los Angeles Councilmember of the 13th Council District.)
-cw
