LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The City of Los Angeles is cracking down on illegal fireworks as the Fourth of July holiday approaches.
It has assembled a specific task force, which is in its second year, to target illegal sales throughout the city.
"All fireworks are illegal in the city of Los Angeles. They can't be sold and they can't be purchased by individuals," City Attorney Mike Feuer said. "Just this week, this task force was responsible for confiscating more than 700 pounds of illegal fireworks that were found following an investigation in the Santee Alley area of Los Angeles."
By stopping the sales, city officials hope to stop the flow of dangerous fireworks in neighborhoods where they can cause fires and injury. Feuer said that children under the age of 15 account for 40 percent of fireworks injuries.
Two Los Angeles vendors have already been arrested and face charges such as unlawful possession or sale of fireworks. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and $1,000 in fines.
Feuer said the city wants everyone to enjoy the fireworks and should head to professional fireworks events. To view a listing of events in the area check www.safejuly4th.org.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.