Fireworks Display

NEWS ALERT

Private Fireworks Display Scheduled This Saturday

A notice was posted on the City of Malibu Web site Wednesday after The News went to press alerting residents that the Los Angeles County Fire Department has issued a permit for a private fireworks display on Saturday, Aug. 22.
The pyrotechnic display is slated to be launched from a barge off the coast in the area of 30000 Morning View Drive. The event is expected to begin at approximately 9:50 p.m.
There have been widespread expressions of concern in Malibu about the impact of the growing number of local private fireworks displays on local animals, especially dogs and horses.
A fire department statement acknowledges that because of animals' sensitive hearing and keen vision, they may be terrified by the sounds and sights of pyrotechnics and become disoriented. The statement notes that it is not uncommon for dogs to run away and be injured or killed in traffic mishaps. Horses will often rear in panic and can hurt themselves in their stalls.
The fire department urges residents to “safely harbor” animals during fireworks displays, which originally were primarily part of Fourth of July celebrations, yet the agency is now approving an increased number of private permits for the displays throughout the year.
Persons who experience animal related emergencies because of a fireworks display can contact the Los Angeles County Animal Services Department or, if the matter is serious enough to require an immediate response, they can dial 9-1-1 for assistance.
The Malibu City Council is expected to address the issue of private fireworks permits at a future meeting.

—Anne Soble