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Illegal fireworks…how to report their use
“Illegal fireworks use is a problem throughout California and the nation, but the City of Lakewood is doing everything it can to deter and reduce the problem locally,” said City Manager Thaddeus McCormack.
“Lakewood is known throughout the region for its vigorous public education and enforcement against illegal fireworks use.”
“One new approach Lakewood is trying is starting our publicity earlier than ever this year on the dangers of illegal fireworks. We want to do our best to persuade as many residents as possible to celebrate July 4th in a safe and family-friendly way this year, instead of buying illegal fireworks that present a danger to themselves and their neighborhood.”
- If you see or hear illegal fireworks currently in use, call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-623-3500.
- If illegal fireworks are not currently in use, but you know the address where they are repeatedly being used, the best way to report it is by using the Lakewood Connect App. Get ready by downloading the app to your smartphone (Apple App store or Google Play) in advance.
- Or, you can report known addresses of repeat illegal fireworks users by calling the city’s Tip Line at 562-866-9771 ext. SAFE (7233) to leave a voice mail, or call City Hall’s customer service team during business hours at 562-866-9771, ext. 2140.
“The problem of illegal fireworks use has grown in recent years throughout California and the nation, and it doesn’t matter whether a community allows or disallows the use of safe-and-sane fireworks,” said Lakewood City Manager Thaddeus McCormack. “The problem of illegal fireworks is the same in both types of communities.”
“Safe and Sane” fireworks
Lakewood, like many communities in California, allows the use of “safe-and-sane” fireworks approved by the State Fire Marshal on the day of July 4th only between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m.
‘Safe and Sane’ fireworks do not explode or go into the air and feature the State Fire Marshal seal on the packaging. Their sound does not travel far. And families can enjoy them responsibly as part of a fun… and safe… July 4th celebration. Their use also benefits Lakewood community groups that sell them at stands throughout the city between July 1-4.
However, some people make the fateful decision each year to purchase and use fireworks that are illegal in California for personal use, including skyrockets and explosives. These illegal fireworks can start slowly developing roof fires on nearby houses and traumatize pets and people, including veterans who may be suffering from combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Thinking of using illegal fireworks (or allowing them on your property)?
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Some combat veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be traumatized by illegal fireworks. The U.S. Marine Corps urges Americans to be considerate of the veterans living among us when it comes to illegal fireworks use. A Marine veteran of two tours in Iraq said he can prepare for events like the annual fireworks display that his hometown puts on at a certain time. But the sudden rat-a-tat of firecrackers set off by his neighbors throughout the night transports him back to Baghdad and sets him on edge. Lakewood is a community that deeply respects military veterans for their service, so the City of Lakewood urges residents to be considerate of veterans…and think twice before using illegal fireworks in Lakewood.
2. Pets can also be traumatized by loud fireworks…and more pets run away from home and are lost on July 4th than on any other day. Like veterans, most pet owners can prepare their animals for a short, one-time event like a planned fireworks show or the use of safe-and-sane fireworks whose sound does not travel far. But there’s no preparing for the loud and unexpected sounds of illegal skyrockets, firecrackers and other explosives, including those happening late at night.
3. There are significant fines for illegal fireworks use. The City of Lakewood has enhanced its traditional fine of $1,000 for illegal fireworks with other charges that now double the penalty to $2,000 or more.
4. Property owners will be cited along with those responsible for setting off illegal fireworks. Last year, Deputy Sheriffs issued 75 citations for illegal fireworks use in Lakewood and seized 338 pounds of illegal fireworks.
“Lakewood residents can have a lot of fun with safe-and-sane fireworks,” said Lakewood City Manager Thaddeus McCormack, “and you won’t risk harming veterans, pets and neighbors in the process.”
Illegal fireworks can be surrendered at the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station or any L.A. County Fire Station (there are three in Lakewood). No questions asked.
