As concerned residents living in areas classified as high or very high fire zones, we are acutely aware of the threats posed by illegal fireworks. Despite the strict regulations, there’s a clear lack of effective enforcement, putting our lives and properties at risk every day. The continual use of illegal fireworks not only contributes to noise pollution but also significantly increases the threat of wildfire in our community. According to Cal Fire*, illegal fireworks caused about 18,500 fires between 2008 and 2017 in California alone, causing 33 deaths and more than $2 billion in damages.

The existing penalties for offenders appear to have negligible deterrent effects. As victims of this ongoing recklessness, we feel an urgent need to improve these conditions. We call for strengthened enforcement of the ban on illegal fireworks. This includes demanding that our local government take more proactive measures in finding and penalizing the perpetrators. Increasing the fines and imposing stricter punishment on offenders could serve to discourage this hazardous behavior.

We need to remember that preserving safety and peace within our community is a collective responsibility. Let us stand together in making our pleas heard. Please sign the petition to enforce the ban on illegal fireworks and increase fines and punishments for offenders. 

*Cited Source: Cal Fire Report (2019)