SeeCalifornia.com

Municipalities in California host Halloween festivals in October and Santa visits in December. But NOTHING compares to the nearly 100% participation in 4th of July celebrations. In cities that cut back on celebrations or pass laws banning safe & sane fireworks, elected officials face repercussions and even recall efforts.

• Parades and fireworks shows are a costly proposition, but a bigger expense is extra law enforcement and clean-up on the busiest and most dangerous holiday of the year.
• Residents report war zones with fireworks being shot into crowds, cars and even hitting kids. In Santa Ana last year police brought in 33 extra officers but the chief said it wasn’t enough. People took aim at the police chief’s vehicle and opened fire. He retreated from the scene.

4th of July Impacts

• The combo of alcohol, fireworks and driving make Fourth of July “the most dangerous holiday of the year.” – National Safety Council
• 23% of teens (3 million) consume alcohol, marijuana or other drugs before driving.
• Popular California beaches are so crowded that lifeguards cordon off the sand creating vehicle paths.
• Riptides, shark sightings and massive crowds
• Traffic jams and lack of parking at parades and fireworks shows
• Law enforcement officers remain on high alert for threats of terror attacks.
• 285.3 million pounds of fireworks are ignited — the air is unhealthy.
• Average concentrations of fine particulate matter, taken over a 24-hour period, are 42% greater on July Fourth, compared with the few days before and after the holiday. – NOAA
• Animal control reports 30% increase in lost pets on July 4
• Stray bullets damage property and injure people
• Social media postings announcing you are not at home increase likelihood of burglary