Urgent From PETA: Reporting Illegal Fireworks Can Save Animals!

For Immediate Release:
June 22, 2021

Contact:
Tapi Mbundure 202-483-7382

As the Fourth of July approaches—and because many people in Los Angeles are already experiencing amateur fireworks and firecracker displays night after night, all of which are illegal in the city. PETA is asking everyone to report any illegal fireworks in their neighborhoods. Doing so could save cats’ and dogs’ lives, as fireworks often cause animals to jump over fences, break chains, or even break through windows in an attempt to escape the terrifying noises!

Last Fourth of July, dozens of frightened dogs in Los Angeles fled after hearing fireworks booms, and in October, a dog attempting to escape fireworks celebrating a Lakers win got stuck under a house for two days. Fireworks can also disrupt wildlife and startle people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, including veterans.

“Setting off fireworks in the street doesn’t just leave vulnerable humans and other animals shell-shocked—it’s also illegal,” says PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange. “PETA reminds everyone that a happy Fourth can mean a vegan barbecue, a dance party, or a celebratory splash in the pool, just as long as animals are kept safe.”

Making a complaint is as easy as calling 877-275-5273 (877-ASK-LAPD) or filling out a form here. LAPD accepts illegal fireworks without penalty by calling the same number used to report them, and it also recommends the website LACrimeStoppers.org for those who’d like to leave an anonymous tip.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.