The Fire Danger Level at the Angeles National Forest has been raised to “Very High,” as Independence Day and the danger of illegal fireworks draws closer to the Santa Clarita Valley.

Effective Friday, June 29, 2018 the Fire Danger Level was raised to “Very High” across the Angeles National Forest, located just north of Santa Clarita.

“With annual grasses cured, temperatures rising, relative humidity dropping and fire activity across the state increasing, fire management officials have decided to raise the fire danger level,” read a statement from the U.S. Forest Service.

Elevating the fire danger enhances public awareness that wildfire probability increases as temperatures rise and brush dries out, according to park officials.

Human-caused wildfires account for 94 percent of all wildfires on the Angeles National Forest, which damage natural resources and threaten lives and property, according to officials.

The announcement comes after city and county officials held a press conference and demonstration ahead of Independence Day to remind Santa Clarita residents about the dangers of illegal fireworks and the potential threat to public safety the explosive devices pose.

“We understand fireworks are part of the celebration, but safety should always come first,” said Mayor Laurene Weste. “In addition to fires and injuries, fireworks cause anxiety for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and spook our pets.”

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl Osby reiterated the threat fireworks pose to the community, especially while Santa Clarita Valley is experiencing hot and dry weather during fire season.

“As a fire chief and firefighters, we do not support fireworks,” he said. “We encourage all citizens to visit professional firework shows to celebrate the Fourth of July.”

Fireworks have caused millions of dollars of damage in the past, Osby said.

“We experienced over $1.3 million in losses last year in structure fires caused by safe and sane fireworks and illegal fireworks,” he said.

The fire chief added that fireworks considered “safe and sane” are still extremely dangerous.

“Forest fire patrols during the Fourth of July week will strictly enforce the ‘no fireworks’ policy,” the U.S. Forest statement read. “A violation of the law can result in a $5,000 fine and/or six months in jail. Also, anyone causing a wildfire is liable for all costs of suppressing the fire.”

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