A SPECIAL REPORT: FOURTH OF JULY
Legal or Illegal
Fireworks are illegal in the city of Los Angeles and in unincorporated areas of the county, according to spokesmen for the city and county fire departments. However, fireworks with the state fire marshal’s seal of approval, including “safe and sane” fireworks, are permitted in 37 of the county’s 88 cities. To find the nearest legal pyrotechnic display, call (800) 900-FIRE.
Pyrotechnic Peril
A statewide survey from June 17 to July 16, 1997, at 206 hospital emergency rooms primarily in Los Angeles County, found that 45% of reported injuries were due to illegal fireworks and 38% to “safe and sane” fireworks, said a county Fire Department spokesman. Eye injuries to children younger than 7 showed the biggest increase over 1996.
Color Comparison
Pyrotechnic engineers continually try to chemically perfect the colors that light the sky, said Mark Wray of Northridge, publisher of the Pyrotechnics Guild International magazine. The 3,400-member organization meets annually to share tips, new formulations and ideas.
Stars and Stripes
Cal State Northridge’s “Valley of the Stars and Stripes” fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. Saturday at its North Campus, at Zelzah Avenue and Devonshire Street. Tickets are $5 to $8. For information, call (818) 341-2428.
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