With July 4th coming up soon, the City of Goleta wants to take this opportunity to remind community members that setting off fireworks is not only illegal but puts us all in harm’s way. Today, June 27, the City of Goleta is releasing a video message featuring Goleta’s Mayor Paula Perotte, Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig and Goleta Chief of Police Services, Lt. Rich Brittingham urging community members to celebrate Independence Day without illegal fireworks. Here is the video in English and Spanish. A :30 second version is also available here. Please watch and share on your channels.

Mayor Paula Perotte said, “Not only is it illegal to set off fireworks in the City of Goleta, but it is also dangerous and puts our entire community at risk. Every year, across the country, there are thousands of fireworks related injuries reported, and in addition, our community also faces the serious repercussions from the extreme fire risk.”

Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig said, “Illegal Fireworks put us all at risk because they can easily lead to fires. Especially during our current dry, high fire season conditions. It’s just not worth it.”

Goleta Chief of Police Services, Rich Brittingham said, “Goleta Police will be patrolling neighborhoods and enforcing illegal fireworks laws. Offenders are subject to hefty fines. You can also be legally and financially liable for injuries or for starting a fire.”

To report illegal fireworks, call the non-emergency dispatch line at 805-636-2724.

Besides being dangerous, fireworks can also cause a great deal of stress for people who are noise sensitive, and they can be terrifying for pets. Every year, fireworks cause animals to run away, some who are lost forever.

The Santa Barbara County Animal Services is urging pet owners to plan ahead. Crates are available for loan for free from July 1-6 at the Animal Shelter located at Overpass Road.

While no group has organized a professional fireworks show at Girsh Park this year as has been done in year’s past, the City of Goleta hopes you have a safe and fun Independence Day wherever you choose to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Thank you in advance for being a considerate neighbor this Independence Day and always.We can’t wait to celebrate summer together!