During the July 4 holiday this year, the number of calls to the Simi Valley Police Department related to illegal fireworks decreased significantly from the same period in 2007.

The Simi Valley Police Department would like to extend their appreciation and thanks to the citizens of Simi Valley for their efforts to eliminate the possession and discharge of unlawful fireworks during the recent holiday.

The number of fireworks complaints received on July 4 decreased by 44 percent from 287 calls on July 4, 2007 to 159 calls on July 4, 2008. The significant reduction is attributed to an increased awareness throughout the community and an understanding of the dangers associated with the possession and discharge of illegal fireworks.

The police department also recorded a decrease in the number of arrests and citations for illegal fireworks.

The police department took enforcement actions for fireworks violations in 21 cases on July 4, 2007. That number was reduced to 16 enforcement actions on July 4, 2008.

The citizens of Simi Valley have responded positively to the requests of the police and fire departments to eliminate the use of illegal fireworks in the city. Citizens have taken effective steps to reduce the risk of personal injury, property damage and fires associated with illegal fireworks.

The Simi Valley Police Department is committed to eliminating illegal fireworks activity in the city of Simi Valley through an ongoing campaign of education, intervention and enforcement.

Working in concert with the citizens of Simi Valley, we can reduce the risk of injury, property damage and fire by complying with local regulations that prohibit the possession and discharge of illegal fireworks anywhere in the city. Mike Lewis Simi Valley Lewis is chief of the Simi Valley police.