Announcements
BEVERLYWOOD BULLETIN- MAY 12, 2023
BOARD MEETING: There is an Open Board Meeting being held on Tuesday, May 16th at 5:30 PM. Attached is the agenda with the Zoom link.
FIREWORKS: Please read the
following statement prepared by Board Member David Yadegar:
In light of recent incidents please read and
understand the difference between legal and illegal fireworks. Illegal
fireworks pose a serious danger to communities, particularly to vulnerable
populations such as the elderly and children. The effects of illegal fireworks
can be far-reaching, from physical injuries to air pollution, and can have
lasting consequences. Legal fireworks are those managed by professional,
licensed exhibitors, such as those displayed during Fourth of July
celebrations, Hollywood Bowl, and such.
One of the most immediate dangers of illegal
fireworks is the risk of injury. Fireworks are explosives that can cause serious
harm if used improperly. Children are especially at risk, as they may not
understand the dangers associated with fireworks and are more likely to
mishandle them. Even adults can be injured by illegal fireworks, as they can
malfunction or explode unexpectedly.
The use of illegal fireworks can also have a
significant impact on air quality. Fireworks emit a range of chemicals and
pollutants into the air, including particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and
nitrogen oxide. These pollutants can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as
asthma and cause long-term damage to lung tissue. The elderly, who may have
compromised lung function, are particularly vulnerable to these effects.
In addition to the physical dangers, illegal
fireworks can also have a psychological impact on communities. The loud, sudden
noises can trigger anxiety and panic in individuals, especially those with
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The elderly may also be more susceptible
to stress and anxiety caused by the noise and disruption. The use of illegal
fireworks also puts a strain on emergency services, which may be needed to
respond to injuries or fires caused by fireworks. This can delay the response
time for other emergency situations, potentially putting lives at risk.
Finally, the environmental impact of illegal
fireworks cannot be ignored. The debris left behind by fireworks can pollute
waterways and harm wildlife. The chemicals used in fireworks can also
contaminate soil and groundwater, posing a long-term threat to the environment.
In light of the incidents in the Beverlywood
community, it is very important that we take steps to prevent, stop and deter
anyone coming into our community with the intent to use illegal fireworks and
allow us to accept it as the new norm.
In conclusion, the dangers and effects of
illegal fireworks are far-reaching and can have lasting consequences for
communities, the elderly, children, and the environment. It is important to
raise awareness of these dangers and take steps to prevent the use of illegal
fireworks in our community.
'Under California Health and Safety Code Fireworks
Penalties, Section 12700(B), a person in possession of unaltered dangerous
fireworks in violation of the State Fireworks Law is punishable as a
misdemeanor or a public offense with fines ranging from $500 to more than
$50,000, depending on the gross weight of unaltered material.”
In
addition to David’s information, we hope that all Beverlywood residents refrain
from ANY fireworks activity in our community.
If there are incidents, they should be reported to Post Alarm (626
254-2929) providing the location and time of this activity. With the correct information, they can
dispatch patrol officers to investigate the source.
