Pyrotechnic devices and fires in undesignated, unapproved places are NOT allowed in California, and the urgency behind this safety measure drastically increases during fire season. To literally play with fire and cause one, whether intentionally or unintentionally at a time like this is irresponsible, inhumane, and flat out illegal. In Yucaipa/Oak Glen, California, thousands of animal lives have been lost, acres of forest land depleted, as well as the lives of people have been compromised. In addition to this, the Oak Glen apple farms and businesses are taking a financial hit due to both damage and the restricted travel of guests in and out of the area.

The residents of Southern California are shocked, angry, and united in wanting justice for the Yucaipa and Oak Glen communities.

By charging the individuals responsible for starting the El Dorado fire, the fines could be used to help pay for any repairable damage to the affected area. With anything left over, the funds should be spent on fire safety programs and awareness training for local residents to assist in making sure this preventable tragedy does not happen again. We may not be able to bring every tree or woodpecker back, but we can get justice for what is gone, repair and heal what is repairable, and educate our community on how to keep our beautiful home of Southern California safe and as blaze-free as possible.