Southern California is now in the middle of the most severe drought in our recorded history. Our trees and lawns, our hillsides and open spaces are ready to burst into flames at the touch of a spark. Although we can now expect wildfires at any time of year, we are at maximum risk in these dry summer months, and the hillsides of the East San Fernando Valley are especially vulnerable. Now more than ever, we need to take seriously that all fireworks are illegal in Los Angeles.Only five years ago the Verdugo Hills were aflame with the worst wildfire Los Angeles has seen in over half a century. Just two years ago, on the Fourth of July 2020, illegal fireworks set off a dangerous blaze in the Verdugo Hills. Incredible as it seems, at least one Sun Valley resident actually continued igniting illegal fireworks in his backyard while firefighters risked their lives to extinguish the wildfire raging in the hills above him.
In preparation for the 4th of July, Councilmember Krekorian has secured funding to pay for police overtime details to crack down on illegal fireworks in the East Valley. Make no mistake, even so-called safe and sane fireworks are illegal and dangerous. Possession of fireworks can lead to fines up to $50,000, and igniting fireworks could put you in jail for a year. So this Fourth, have a barbecue, fly the flag, but leave the fireworks to the professionals.
VIDEO: CBS coverage of Councilmember Krekorian press event with LAPD and LAFD