The problem: Nightly citywide ILLEGAL fireworks use. The impact on our quality of life has been greatly affected by the pervasive use of ILLEGAL fireworks throughout the city. The dangers to those using fireworks is a concern, and the fire danger to homeowners and residents.
Pets, vets, elderly, working folks who need their sleep, are the most impacted.
The Answer: You! We need the community to come together to find short-term, and long-term solutions. We need your involvement and support.
Here is what you can do:
- Participate in nightly patrols, just to be a presence, and deterrent. No confrontation. We are working on fliers, and brochures to be handed out.
- Share your ideas. There are no bad ideas, just ones that have better chances for success.
- Talk to your neighbors,family members, co-workers. Share information and emphasize our goal is to reduce ILLEGAL fireworks use in Oxnard,
- Give to a GoFundMe page we will set up. Our city budget is at the breaking point. We cannot add police overtime to address this issue. It must come from us. If you are in solidarity with us on this issue, give what you can. We need resources, and they cost money. If you can’t give money, give time, or materials.
- Support our police. Many of us are angry, frustrated, and at our own breaking point with this nuisance. Understand that delayed or no response is not that they don’t care, or are not working on this issue. They have to prioritize calls, and they are inundated. Rather than pointing fingers, be part of the solution.
- Be part of the task force. There are many needs to address this issue, that do not involve going out on the streets. Sign up, and get a task that suits your abilities.
- We will share more information as we get it. We stand together to keep our city the place we love to live, work, and raise families.
Here are some tips for pet owners with anxious or Frightened pets from fireworks:
- Before usual time of fireworks, take them for a walk.
- Play soothing tunes, or calming white noise.
- Keep them hydrated. Anxious dogs and cats pant a lot.
- Thundershirt, anxiety reducing vest.
- Treats and/or playtime as a distraction.
- Cats and dogs have sensitive ears, and will do anything to escape, such as; digging under fences,breaking thru windows, or running thru gates. Make sure their microchip and collar are up to-date, so they can be returned to you, if they get out.
- Keep them in a closed room, or a crate. They may feel more secure there.
- For pets with an anxiety disorder, or severely traumatized, consider sedation. Consult your vet.
Informational Sheet
ALL fireworks in the City of Oxnard are ILLEGAL.
Zero Tolerance for the sale, possession, ad use of ILLEGAL fireworks.
Fine $1,000 ( or new fine amount)
If a fire is caused by the use of any ILLEGAL fireworks, arson charges may be brought against the user.
“Social Host” ordinance. A homeowner or tennant can be fined for illegal fireworks, even if the person firing them has left the premise.
Using ILLEGAL fireworks around small child could result in child endangerment charges.
ILLEGAL fireworks result in wildfires that cost millions in property damage, and loss of life.
Cherry Bombs, Silver Salutes, and M-80’s have been banned by Federal Law since 1966 because of the large amounts of explosive composition they contain. If you find any of these items, DO NOT touch them. Immediately call your Oxnard Police or Fire Department. If you are aware of someone selling these illegal and dangerous items, contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms immediately at: 1-888 ATF-BOMB. CHERRY BOMBS: C h e r r y bombs are red in color and approximately 1” in diameter. M 80’s: M-80’s are red in color and approximately 1-1/2”.
Doug Partello
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