ATF Promotes A Safe July 4th Celebration

LOS ANGELES, June 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Special Agent in Charge John
A. Torres of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Los
Angeles Field Division, encourages Southern California residents to be safe
and responsible during Fourth of July celebrations.

With Independence Day just around the corner, ATF reminds the public to keep
safety in mind when using fireworks. The instructions printed on the
fireworks' product packaging must be followed carefully; and residents need to
be aware of their local laws regulating the use of fireworks.

"We want this Fourth of July to be a time to celebrate and show our pride in
our country. We do not want it to be marred by anyone, particularly young
children getting injured or killed using illegal fireworks," said Torres.
"Additionally, with another year of below average rainfall, we must take extra
precautions when celebrating with fireworks."

ATF is the federal law enforcement agency charged with enforcing federal
explosives law. ATF actively works with federal, state and local agencies to
prevent the manufacture, trafficking and illegal possession of illegal
fireworks and illegal explosive devices. Federally banned fireworks include
M-80s, M-100s, silver salutes and cherry bombs. The manufacture, sale and
possession of these and similar explosive devices can result in criminal
charges.

Each year ATF investigates numerous instances involving the illegal
manufacture, distribution and possession of illegal fireworks and explosive
devices. Recently, during the execution of a search warrant, ATF seized more
than 200 pounds of fireworks illegally possessed at a home in Cerritos, Calif.

The public is urged to report illegal sales of professional-grade fireworks or
other explosive devices such as M-80s to their local police department and to
ATF by calling 1-888-ATF-BOMB, or 1-888-283-2662. Callers can remain
anonymous.

ATF Public Service announcement available at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtHkFfOczsA

More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.

SOURCE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Michael Hoffman of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives,
PIO, Office: +1-818-265-2507, Cell: +1-213-925-4547