The 4th of July Holiday is just around the corner! It is important to remember that the City of Glendale has a zero tolerance policy for all fireworks. All personal fireworks, including “safe and sane” varieties are illegal in the city. The municipal code allows for the prosecution of fireworks-related offenses. Violators are subject to arrest, which could include serving up to six months in jail with fines up to $1,000.
Statistics show that fireworks are among the most dangerous of all consumer products. Even hand-held sparklers, which many consider safe, are dangerous and can reach 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, causing serious burns and fires.
Instead, you are encouraged to celebrate safely by viewing a professional firework show. This year, there will be three professional fireworks displays in the area:
Jewel City Sparkles: The City of Glendale is excited to announce the “Jewel City Sparkles” fireworks display on July 4th in downtown Glendale, sponsored in part by Caruso! Come out and celebrate the re-opening of downtown Glendale, visit businesses, and enjoy some Al Fresco dining from a local restaurant while you enjoy the show. The fireworks will begin at 9:00 p.m., and will be centered near Harvard St. and Brand Blvd. This is not a ticketed event, and you are encouraged to view the show from anywhere in the area. Please call (818) 548-2792 if you have any questions concerning the event.
Crescenta Valley Fireworks: This year, the Crescenta Valley Fireworks Association will host its annual fireworks show on Sunday, July 4th. 14th annual event. They will not be able to have any spectators on the field this year, but there will be many great places to watch the show from outside the school and around the valley. The show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Oakmont Country Club: The Oakmont Country Club will host a planned/private fireworks show at the Oakmont Country Club. The show begins at 9:00pm. The fireworks are being launched on the Oakmont Country Club property and will last for approximately 20 minutes.
Please keep in mind that many pets become so frightened by the noise and commotion of fireworks that they run from otherwise familiar environments and people, and sadly become lost.
Help your pets keep their cool: Follow the Humane Society’s four simple steps for keeping them safe during loud—and hot—warm weather festivities.
1. Keep your pet safely away from fireworks
Pets are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and strong smells. On the Fourth of July, and other days people are likely to set off fireworks, it's best to leave your pets safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften jarring noises. Even pets who are usually kept outdoors should be brought inside.
If you are going to an Independence Day event and cannot leave your pet unattended at home, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times.
2. If your pet is scared by fireworks, ask a veterinarian for help
There are medications and techniques that might help alleviate your pet's fear and anxiety. You can also try their suggestions for helping your dog cope with loud noises.
3. Protect your pet from heat stroke during summer festivities
Another reason to keep your pets away from the often noisy celebrations of summer is heat. High temperatures put your pet at risk of heat stroke, which can become deadly very quickly. Keep an eye on your pets and act immediately if you see any signs of heatstroke.
NEVER leave your pet in a parked car, even if the day doesn’t seem that warm. The temperature outside may be a balmy 72 degrees, but the temperature inside a closed vehicle can rocket to a fatal 116 degrees in less than an hour.
Also remember that hot pavement can be dangerous to unprotected paws; if it’s too hot for you to hold your hand to the ground for five seconds, it's not safe for your dog to walk on.
4. Safeguard your pet with a collar and ID tag
All pets, even those kept indoors full-time, should always wear collars with ID tags. Indoor-only pets can become so frightened during fireworks displays that they may take desperate measures to escape the noise, including breaking through windows or door screens. You should also ensure that your pet is microchipped and that the chip is properly registered with your current contact information.
If your pet does become lost, contact your local animal control and surrounding shelters immediately and follow the rest of the advice for finding your pet.
If you find a lost pet, either take them to the address on their tag or bring them to an animal shelter so they can be reunited with their family.
Help keep all of us, our children, our homes, and our properties safe from illegal fireworks. If you see something, say something! Call Glendale Police at (818) 548-4911 to report illegal fireworks and other suspicious activities.
The City of Glendale would like to wish you a happy and safe Fourth of July!