LOS ANGELES (July 1, 2021) —   The explosion of confiscated fireworks in South Los Angeles yesterday was a tragic reminder of how fireworks endanger public safety. In high fire severity zone communities like the Northeast San Fernando Valley, the danger of sparking a wildfire is a very real possibility that could lead to evacuations and devastating damage.

In response to community concerns, Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez piloted in her district, the City’s first fireworks buyback program with support of LAPD and LAFD.  The event held on Wednesday, June 30 at Brand Park in Mission Hills resulted in over a quarter ton of fireworks being voluntarily collected and removed from the streets.

“Thanks to community members who voluntarily participated in this pilot buy back effort we netted over a quarter ton of illegal fireworks,” said Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez. “This program tested a new tool in our citywide effort to combat the use of illegal fireworks. It’s inaugural success shows promise for a larger city-wide effort that can return peace to our neighborhoods and enhance public safety for residents.”

Participants received items such as Dodger tickets, passes for Universal Studios and gift cards to Starbucks, Walmart or Target.  The event was held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a steady stream of cars throughout the day. In total, 78 people participated in the pilot buyback event.

                     Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez serves as the City’s Chair of Public Safety and represents the 7th Council District in the Northeast San Fernando Valley which include the neighborhoods of Sylmar, Mission Hills, Pacoima, Lake View Terrace, Sunland, Tujunga, North Hills, Shadow Hills, and La Tuna Canyon.