1 I am Mary Gonzales, Signal Hill homeowner, and I wish to be on record against adding a fireworks ordinance to the City and allowing the sale of fireworks. "Safe and sane" fireworks, as designated in California, may be less hazardous than illegal fireworks, but still pose significant environmental risks. These fireworks release harmful chemicals and heavy metals, such as perchlorates, barium, and strontium, which can contaminate air, soil, and water. The smoke they produce contributes to air pollution, worsening respiratory issues and increasing particulate matter in the atmosphere. Additionally, the plastic and paper waste left behind often ends up in waterways, harming wildlife and ecosystems.
Even though they are legal, "safe" fireworks still have a lasting negative impact on the environment and are banned in nearby Long Beach. There is a fiscal impact to nearby Long Beach as it could add to confusion to their enforcement efforts due to their ban.
Examples:
1. Air Pollution – Less explosive, these fireworks still release fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic gases like nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which contribute to smog and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma. For example, after July 4th celebrations, air quality monitoring stations in California often record spikes in pollution levels.
2. Chemical Contamination – Fireworks contain heavy metals and chemicals that can leach into the environment. For example:
o Barium (used for green colors) is toxic to humans and wildlife. o Strontium (red colors) can contaminate soil and water. o Perchlorates, found in many fireworks, can seep into groundwater and disrupt thyroid function in humans and animals.
In Southern California, perchlorate contamination in drinking water has been linked to fireworks and other industrial sources.
Because of these harms, many cities like Long Beach, have completely banned all fireworks, including legal ones, for many of the reasons I have already mentioned and:
1. Strict Fire Regulations – Long Beach has a high risk of fires due to its mix of urban areas, dry brush, and coastal winds. Even small fireworks can ignite fires in parks, alleys, or residential areas. The city’s ban helps prevent unnecessary fire hazards, especially during dry summer months. 2 2. Air and Water Pollution – Fireworks release heavy metals, smoke, and chemicals that linger in the air and settle into waterways. Long Beach’s proximity to the ocean means that firework debris can easily end up in storm drains, polluting the Los Angeles River, wetlands, and coastal waters, which are home to diverse marine life.
3. Impact on Local Wildlife – The noise and chemical residue from fireworks can disturb birds, marine mammals, and other wildlife. In areas like the Los Cerritos Wetlands and El Dorado Park, sudden loud explosions can cause nesting birds to abandon their eggs, while toxic chemicals can poison fish and aquatic ecosystems.
4. Community Safety and Enforcement – The Long Beach Police and Fire Departments enforce a zero-tolerance policy on fireworks, citing the risks they pose to public safety, pets, and air quality. The city instead promotes safe alternatives, like drone light shows or community events, that don’t have the same environmental consequences.
We are surrounded by Long Beach’s which has a strict ban to reflect the growing recognition that even "safe" fireworks come with serious environmental costs, which is why many other cities in California are moving toward similar restrictions.
Extreme Fire Danger in LA County – The recent destructive fires in Altadena and Palos Verdes have shown how dry conditions, strong winds, and urbanwildland proximity make Los Angeles County highly susceptible to fires. Even small sparks from legal fireworks can ignite dry brush and spread rapidly, endangering homes, wildlife, and lives.
Finally, it seems from the wording of the proposal, it is also intended as a youth service organization fundraiser and if that is the case there are other methods to raise money that don’t harm our fragile environment.