LAPD Fireworks Calls of Service NR20174ml

July 21, 2020 NR20174jc

***UPDATED*** In comparison to last year, an analysis of Calls of Service revealed an 86.2% increase (2019-4,380 vs. 2020-8,155) and a 252% increase in online reporting (2019-1,579 vs. 2020-5,559). Additionally, the total amount of fireworks seized by the LAPD nearly doubled last year’s 2,350 pounds, with a total of 4,350 pounds of fireworks recovered this summer.

Los Angeles: The Fourth of July holiday period has historically brought about a proliferation of illegal fireworks throughout the City and County of Los Angeles.

As we all know, this was a very busy and noisy year for fireworks. In preparation for the 4th of July, the Los Angeles Police Department maintained coordination with the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department and My Safe LA.

The Department implemented a Fireworks Reduction Plan, which included hanging fireworks banners at every station and utilizing social media messaging from all of our LAPD geographic area platforms.

We also connected with our community members via Zoom meetings and dispatched Senior Lead Officers to chronic call locations, from previous years. Our goal was to educate residents about the dangers and consequences of using fireworks.

In comparison to last year, an analysis of Calls of Service revealed a 186% increase (2019-4,380 vs. 2020-8,155) and a 352% increase in online reporting (2019-1,579 vs. 2020-5,559). Additionally, the total amount of fireworks seized by the LAPD nearly doubled last year’s 2,350 pounds, with a total of 4,350 pounds of fireworks recovered this summer.

While we believe our strategies played a significant role in protecting the public and preventing the loss of life and damaged property, the quarantine related to the COVID – 19 pandemic definitely had an impact on the increase in the use of illegal fireworks.