Exactly one year ago today, on July 3, 2022, the city of Los Angeles saw an impressive turnout at its second annual fireworks-buyback event in Mission Hills. A staggering 673 pounds of illegal fireworks were collected, marking a 31% increase from the previous year.
In an effort to discourage the use of illegal pyrotechnics on the Fourth of July, the Los Angeles police and fire departments were present to accept the surrendered fireworks. City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez’s office, the host of the event, expressed gratitude towards teachers who had confiscated fireworks from their students and parents who had brought fireworks while their kids were at school.
The city councilwoman also stressed the dangers posed by fireworks, not only in terms of fire and safety hazards but also the trauma they can cause animals, seniors, and veterans due to the loud noise. To encourage participation, individuals were rewarded with various gifts based on the weight of the fireworks they dropped off, including Starbucks, Target, and gas gift cards, as well as tickets to a Dodgers game.
The buyback program, which took place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Brand Park, was organized jointly by Rodriguez, the police department, and the fire department. Last year’s event saw a surrender of 514 pounds of fireworks ahead of the 2021 holiday.
During a news conference in Mission Hills, Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott acknowledged the popularity of fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations but emphasized the hidden consequences, such as permanent injuries and devastating wildfires. LAPD Chief Michel Moore also reminded residents that the possession and use of fireworks are illegal in the city, regardless of whether they were purchased outside city limits.
Scott highlighted the severe drought conditions, which make hillsides prone to wildfires, and how easily fireworks can spark these destructive blazes. He urged the public to join their efforts in preventing wildfires by refraining from using fireworks: “Our wildfire danger is ever prevalent, and it’s only exacerbated by the ongoing drought. Our hillsides are very susceptible to a spark, so one less spark is one less wildfire. We want you to join our team to ensure that.”
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