A multi-agency press conference focusing on the danger of unlawful fireworks is set for Los Angeles County Fire Station 126 in Valencia on Wednesday, June 26, at 3 p.m.

While the Fourth of July is a time for celebration, the city of Santa Clarita, county of Los Angeles and public safety officials urge residents to engage in festivities responsibly.

Designed to educate residents about fireworks safety, the press conference is open to the public. It will include speeches and demonstrations by Santa Clarita City Council members along with Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, County Fire Chief Daryl Osby, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station Captain Robert Lewis and the Grossman Burn Center.

Fire Station 126 is located at 26320 Citrus Street, Valencia 91355.

“The fact that we have so many agencies coming together is a testament to how serious we are about our zero-tolerance stance on illegal fireworks in the city,” said Mayor Marsha McLean. “The recent fires we’ve had in town should be a reminder of the potential for damaging fires in Santa Clarita. With all of the dry brush covering our hillsides, now is not the time to play with illegal fireworks. They pose an immense threat to our community.”

According to the county Fire Department, every year fireworks start more than 1,600 fires and cause injuries including burns and loss of limbs.

“Using illegal fireworks is not worth the safety or financial risk,” Barger said. “It’s our job as responsible community members to do our part to help prevent fires, injuries, and liabilities. This Fourth of July, please leave the shows to the professionals to keep our families and neighborhoods out of harm’s way.”

In the city of Santa Clarita, it is illegal to possess, sell or use fireworks including those labeled “Safe and Sane,” such as sparklers, snaps, smoke balls and any item that explodes.

“Our deputies will cite anyone they see setting off fireworks and they will confiscate all illegal fireworks,” Lewis said. “We know fireworks are part of the festivities, but we urge everyone to leave them to the professionals. Please show respect for your neighbors by upholding the law and help keep our community safe from accidental fires and/or injuries.”

In Santa Clarita, fireworks are a violation of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code, Health and Safety Code and Los Angeles County Fire Code. The public is encouraged to violations anonymously by calling the SCV Sheriff’s Station at 661-255-1121. Please do not dial 9-1-1 unless it is a life-threatening emergency.

“While you may enjoy the dazzling sights and sounds, your next-door neighbor may be a veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder or simply someone who develops extreme anxiety from fireworks,” McLean said. “We also cannot forget about our pets. The day after the Fourth of July is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters due to the many frightened animals that run away from home.”

To enjoy a spectacular fireworks show, everyone is encouraged to attend the city’s annual Fourth of July celebration. As in years past, the show will take place at Westfield Valencia Town Center and start at 9:15 p.m.

For more information on local professional fireworks shows in and near the Santa Clarita Valley, or details regarding regulations, visit santa-clarita.com/Fireworks.