Ban all fireworks in Buena Park, California

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The Issue

On a warm summer evening in July 2025, a tragedy struck Buena Park, California, that no family should ever have to endure. Eight-year-old Jasmin Nguyen lost her life due to illegal fireworks. Her laughter silenced, her dreams extinguished, and a family's world turned upside down – all because of a moment of carelessness and danger that fireworks inherently bring.

Fireworks are often seen as symbols of celebration and joy, but in the hands of the reckless or inexperienced, they are devastatingly dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an average of 18,500 reported fires annually in the United States, which includes 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. In 2019 alone, fireworks injuries sent more than 10,000 people to the emergency room nationwide.

Illegal fireworks exacerbate these dangers because they are unregulated and particularly prone to malfunctioning. Buena Park, with its close-knit communities and fondness for celebrations, deserves to enjoy these events without the lurking fear of catastrophic accidents. Banning fireworks in Buena Park is no longer just an idea—it's a necessary step towards safeguarding our children, our pets, and our property.

We propose strict enforcement of a comprehensive ban on all types of fireworks, investing instead in safe and professionally managed public displays for occasions such as the 4th of July, New Year's Eve, and other celebratory events. This transition can not only prevent more tragedies like Jasmin Nguyen's but foster a stronger sense of community as we gather together under the same sky to enjoy the spectacle without fear of harm.

Fireworks cause not just injuries but can set off anxiety in veterans with PTSD and fearful responses in animals, as demonstrated by countless anecdotal reports and studies. The ground-shaking explosions are jarring for many and have lasting impacts on mental health, particularly in areas with dense populations like Buena Park.

We urge Buena Park city officials to take immediate action to ban all fireworks and promote safer, community-oriented celebrations. Let's transform this plea into a widespread movement for safety and awareness, honoring Jasmin's memory with change.

Please sign this petition and lend your voice to a cause that aims to protect and enrich our communities.

The Decision Makers

Buena Park City Council
6 Members
Joyce Ahn
Buena Park City Council - District 1
Jose Castaneda
Buena Park City Council - District 2
Carlos Franco
Buena Park City Council - District 2

Petition Updates