Monthly Message City Manager Ken Striplin Leave the Fireworks to the Professionals this Fourth of July

Santa Clarita has had more than its share of wildfires. The heavy rains we experienced the first half of this year left our hillsides lush and green, but as we move further into the summer months they are now covered with thick, dry brush. Combine this with the Santa Ana winds and it creates the perfect conditions for a devastating wildfire. I urge you to keep this in mind as we head into the Fourth of July holiday.

All fireworks are illegal in the City of Santa Clarita. A small ember from a simple sparkler can quickly ignite brush and cause untold damage. Instead, take advantage of the professional fireworks shows happening throughout the Valley. The City will once again be hosting the Spirit of America at Valencia Town Center. I encourage you to join us and celebrate this patriotic holiday with friends, family and the community. The show will begin at approximately 9:20 p.m. with patriotic music simulcast on KHTS AM 1220 and FM 98.1. In addition, our neighbor to the west, Six Flags Magic Mountain will be presenting spectacular fireworks over the roller coasters July 1 through the Fourth.

Please keep an eye on social media for our latest fireworks safety campaign, reminding residents of the dangers of fireworks. Not only can they spark a fire, cause injury or death, they can also scare our pets, with the most runaway pets reported over the Fourth than any other time of year. Our new campaign pairs adoptable dogs from the Castaic Animal Care Center with our brave local firefighters. Please follow the City of Santa Clarita on social media to learn more and for information about firework safety and resources, please visit santa-clarita.com/Fireworks. I wish all of you a happy and safe Fourth of July.