Fatal Traffic Collision at Katella Ave and Reagan St.

Press Release

December 30, 2014

Fatal Traffic Collision at Katella Ave and Reagan St

A 25-year-old female passenger suffered fatal injuries as a result of a two vehicle traffic collision near the intersection of Katella Ave and Reagan St.  The collision occurred shortly after midnight on December 30, 2014 after a silver late model Ford Mustang, being driven by a 28-year-old male, lost control of the car and swerved into the opposing traffic lanes.  Witnesses reported seeing the Mustang traveling west on Katella Ave at a high rate speed as it approached a roadway construction zone.  The driver of the Mustang lost control of the vehicle, striking the raised center median before swerving into the eastbound lanes of Katella Ave where it was struck by an oncoming passenger van.  The passenger van, driven by a solo occupant, broadsided the Mustang and overturned.  Construction workers who witnessed the accident immediately rendered aid to the vehicle’s occupants while first responders from the Los Alamitos Police Department and Orange County Fire Authority were being dispatched to the accident scene.  Due to the impact of the collision, the female passenger was trapped inside the vehicle and had to be extracted by fire personnel.  Once removed from the vehicle, she was immediately transported to UCI Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries.  The driver of the Mustang sustained major injuries and was taken to Long Beach Memorial for emergency trauma treatment.  The driver of the passenger van was shaken by the collision but otherwise uninjured and released at the scene after providing a statement to police.  It is unknown if the occupants of the Mustang were impaired by any intoxicants.  No members of the construction crew were injured.  The collision is being investigated by the Los Alamitos Police Department and members of the regional Serious Traffic Accident Response Team, and anyone who may have witnessed the accident is encouraged to contact Traffic Sergeant Chris Karrer at (562) 431-2255, extension 473 with information.  The identities of the victims are being withheld until the next of kin are notified.

Submitted by:

Captain Bruce McAlpine

Los Alamitos Police Department
bmcalpine@cityoflosalamitos.org
(562) 431-225, extension 420

Flags Lowered for Fallen NYPD Officers

The City of Los Alamitos will lower their flags to half staff in honor of New York City Police Officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos. 

Both were shot and killed December 20, 2014, while serving their community.  Our flags will remain at half staff until their funeral.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these fallen police officers.

Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping

As the Holiday shopping season comes to an end, the Los Alamitos Police Department presents some tips for a safer shopping experience.


Shopping Safety

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for December 7- December 13.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping

As the Holiday shopping season continues, the Los Alamitos Police Department presents some tips for a safer shopping experience.


Holiday Shopping Tips

JFTB Aviation Training Exercises this Evening

Please see the linked JFTB News Release for information regarding U.S. Marine Corps Aviation Unit Training Exercises this evening.

JFTB News Release

Wet Roads Reminder

As the storms pass through, please slow down and drive carefully when the roads are wet.  This includes when when it is raining and after the storms pass but the roads are still slick.  Increased stopping distances, flooding, diminished traction and visibility are driving challenges which can be remedied by decreasing your speed.

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for November 28- December 6.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

JFTB Aviation Training Exercises This Saturday Evening

Please see the linked JFTB News Release for information regarding U.S. Marine Corps Aviation Unit Training Exercises on Saturday.

JFTB News Release

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for November 23 - November 29.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for November 16- November 22.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping

As the Holiday shopping season becomes busier, the Los Alamitos Police Department presents some tips for a safer shopping experience.

Shopping Safety

Happy Thanksgiving

The Los Alamitos Police Department wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.  With the long weekend and the Holiday Season becoming busier, we invite you to check in periodically with our website, Department News page, our Facebook or Twitter page for tips on safety. 

Most importantly, we remind you that if you “See Something, Say Something.”  Report suspicious people and circumstances in the City of Los Alamitos to our dispatch center at (562) 594-7232, or if there is an Emergency, call 9-1-1.

Preventing Holiday Fire Tragedies

Every year, families suffer through Holiday fire tragedies.  The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) has some important information to help prevent you and your family from becoming a victim.

Christmas Tree Safety

Holiday Lighting Safety

The Los Alamitos Police Department wishes everyone a safe Holiday Season!

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires

An important message from the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) to avoid a Holiday fire tragedy!

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for November 9- November 15.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for November 2- November 8.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for October 26 - November 1.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for October 19 - October 25.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Halloween Safety Reminders

The Los Alamitos Police Department would like to share some simple safety reminders to ensure that everyone's family enjoys a Happy Halloween.   To review these safety tips, please click here.

Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a festive holiday tradition enjoyed by over 150 million American families every year.  Of these, 41 million children between the ages of 5 to 14 will go out Trick or Treating.  The Los Alamitos Police Department wants everyone to enjoy their evening, but we also would like to remind parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles to take extra care when watching over their little goblins and ghouls.  To learn more, please click here.

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for October 12 - October 18.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for October 5- October 11.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for September 28 - October 4.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for September 21 - September 27.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

California Shakeout Drill

The Great California Shakeout gave Los Alamitos City staff an opportunity to drill for Disaster Preparedness!

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for September 14 - September 20.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for September 7 - September 13.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for August 31 - September 6.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for August 24 - August 30.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for August 10 - August 16.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Los Alamitos Sobriety Checkpoint: Friday, August 22

The Los Alamitos Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint between 8:00 PM and 2:00 AM on Friday, August 22, 2014, in the area of Katella Avenue and Civic Center.

 

Sobriety Checkpoints haven proven to be an effective resource in reducing the number of people killed and/or injured as a result of motorists driving while impaired, and nearly 90% of all Californians approve of checkpoints.  Research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has shown highly visible enforcement can reduce impaired driving fatalities by as much as 20%.  Potential penalties for any motorists arrested at the checkpoint may include time in jail, fines, fees, and mandatory DUI classes.  The monetary cost for a DUI arrest often exceeds $10,000; however, the cost of injuring or killing someone is immeasurable.

The Los Alamitos Police Department is committed to making its community safe for all who travel our roads and will have several highly skilled and trained law enforcement professionals on hand to courteously and effectively evaluate motorists as they pass through the checkpoint. 

Funding for this checkpoint is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for August 3 - August 9.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for July 27 - August 2.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

No Kids or Pets in Hot Cars

This past week, the police department responded to three separate incidents of children and/or pets left unattended in a locked vehicle.  Fortunately, no injuries were sustained and vigilant citizens were proactive in calling for help.  Leaving small children and pets unattended in vehicles can lead to disastrous results. 

 

Each and every year during the summer months or when temperatures rise above normal, first responders are called upon to rescue children and pets who have been left in locked vehicles with little to no ventilation.  Even on mild days where the ambient temperature is 72 degrees, the interior temperature of an unventilated car with its doors closed and windows rolled up can rise more than 30 degrees within 30 minutes.  Imagine how this is magnified when summer temperatures and high humidity reach their peak.  Vehicles often have a greenhouse effect.  As summer begins to wind down, the Los Alamitos Police Department offers this reminder as a way to keep our loved ones safe. 

 

If you see a child or pet in an unattended locked car call 9-1-1 immediately.

 

Continue reading below...

 

National Night Out

The Los Alamitos Police Department cordially invites the members of its community to attend the 2014 National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5 at the Target Shopping Center, located at 12300 Seal Beach Blvd.

 

National Night Out is a designated evening that promotes citizen and community awareness to take a stand against crime, drugs, and disorder in their neighborhoods.  It also serves to bring people together in an effort to strengthen relationships and improve their overall quality of life.  This year, the Los Alamitos Police Department will partner with the Seal Beach Police Department, Target Corporation, and Ralph’s Stores to help bring about a lively and interactive evening of information sharing.  There will be law enforcement displays, giveaways, and informal question and answer sessions hosted by members of the police department.

 

Please consider taking time out of your hectic and busy schedules to join us from 6:00 PM to dusk for hot dogs, popcorn, and beverages as we confirm our conviction against crime and disorder while promoting personal preparedness in Los Alamitos.

Planned Power Outage on Katella Avenue

Southern California Edison will be performing planned electrical maintenance to update infrastructure in the area of 3801 Katella Ave on Monday, August 4 between 2:00 AM and 5:30 AM.  Power may be off for the entire planned time or various portions.  The outage should not affect any residential customers. For complete information community members are encourage to visit www.sce.com/outage or call the SCE customer service line at 1 (800) 611-1911.

National Night Out

National Night Out is a designated evening when communities across America come together to take a stand against crime, drugs, and disorder in their neighborhoods.

 

Please join the Los Alamitos and Seal Beach Police Departments as they team up with Target and Ralphs to host and promote personal preparedness.

 

 

DATE:               Tuesday, August 5, 2014

 

TIME:                6:00 PM

 

LOCATION:      Target (Parking Lot)

                          12300 Seal Beach Blvd

                          Seal Beach, CA  90720

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for July 20 - July 26.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for July 13 - July 19.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for July 6 - July 12.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for June 29 - July 5.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

 The new Weekly Crime Summary is available for June 22 - June 28.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Traffic Advisory for Los Alamitos Race Track Opening Day

The Los Alamitos Police Department anticipates increased vehicular traffic congestion in and around the Los Alamitos Race Track during the 4^th of July Holiday weekend as the 8-day Summer Thoroughbred Festival gets underway.  Race track officials believe July 3, which is Opening Day, and Saturday, July 5 will see the highest number of attendees. Racing is scheduled for the afternoons between the approximate times of 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm.  Motorists are encouraged to consider using alternate routes or travel during off peak hours. 

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for June 15 - June 21.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Los Alamitos Police Department Cautions the Public of Illegal Fireworks

As the 4^th of July fast approaches and we celebrate the birth of our nation with family and friends, the Los Alamitos Police Department would like to remind the public that the use of fireworks in the City is illegal. 

 

Across the nation, approximately 10,000 people sustain eye injuries and burns from the use of fireworks each year, and as reported by the National Safety Council (www.nsc.org), children between the ages of 10 and 14 are three times as likely to suffer a fireworks related injury as the general population.  Most of these injuries are directly attributed to the use of illegal fireworks as well as those approved as Safe and Sane.  Moreover, millions of dollars of fireworks related property damage are reported annually. 

 

The use, possession, or sale of fireworks in Los Alamitos is a crime and is punishable by fines up to $1,000 and/or 1 year in county jail.  The Los Alamitos Police Department will be actively enforcing California Health and Safety Code violations related to fireworks. 

 

The Police Department wants everyone to celebrate Independence Day safely and responsibly.  Residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the professional fireworks display and festivities presented during the 4^th of July Spectacular held at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base.  The event is free to the public but a nominal $5 fee per vehicle will be charged for parking.

 

The public is encouraged to report fireworks activity to the Los Alamitos Police Department at (562) 594-7232.

 

Prepared by:

 

 

Captain Bruce McAlpine

Los Alamitos Police Department

(562) 431-2255, extension 420

 

Pet Owner Tips for the July 4th Holiday

The Fourth of July can be a frightening time for animals, with the loud sounds of firecrackers and fireworks often sending pets scurrying out of the house or yard in search of security or shelter.  Long Beach Animal Care Services reminds all animal owners that they can save themselves and their pets a tremendous amount of heartache and anxiety by following a few simple suggestions:

 

•             Keep pets indoors, if possible, or confined to a secure area (never tether an animal because it can lead to more harm or an accidental death)

•             Double check yard gates to make sure that pets cannot escape

•             Make certain pets are wearing identification, including the name and current telephone number of owner

 

Anyone who loses an animal in the City of Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Signal Hill or Cerritos should visit www.petharbor.com or the City's pet lost and found online at www.longbeach.gov/acs.  If one does not see their pet online, please visit the local shelter in person on Saturday, July 5, 2014, between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.  The shelter is located at 7700 E. Spring St., between Studebaker Road and the San Gabriel River (605) Freeway. 

 

Taking special care of your pets during the Fourth of July is responsible pet ownership, just like licensing and keeping identification tags on pets, and making sure they are spayed or neutered

 The shelter will be closed Friday, July 4, 2014, but Animal Control Officers will be responding 24-hours a day to emergency calls, such as stray and injured animals, and animals that have bitten others.

 

Animal Care staff will contact owners of lost pets that have identification tags or microchips.  Animals with identification will be held at the Village for fourteen days, pending being claimed by their owner.  Animals without identification will be held for a minimum of six days before being evaluated for adoption.

 The shelter is open to the public Wednesday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.  The shelter is closed on Monday, Tuesday and holidays.  For Animal Care Services or more information call 570-PETS (7387). After-hours emergency phone calls for services are automatically transferred to the Fire Department for dispatch service.

 
For further information regarding Animal Care Services and responsible pet ownership, visit www.longbeach.gov/acs or call 562.570.7387.

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for June 8 - June 14.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for June 1 - June 7.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for  May 25 - May 31.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Make Los Al Inhospitable... for Coyotes

Help eliminate attractants from your yard!

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for  May 18 - May 24.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for  May 11 - May 17.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

Make Los Al Inhospitable... for Coyotes

Help eliminate attractants from your yard!

Make Los Al Inhospitable... for Coyotes

Help eliminate attractants from your yard!

OC EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER AND PUBLIC INFORMATION HOTLINE DEACTIVATED

ORANGE COUNTY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER AND PUBLIC INFORMATION HOTLINE DEACTIVATED; SHELTER CLOSED


The County of Orange deactivated the Emergency Operations Center at 1930 hours on May 16, 2014. The Public Information Hotline has also been deactivated and staff will no longer be present to receive calls of inquiry to the Combat Fire on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. San Diego residents may call 2-1-1 for the most current information on open shelters in their area.

The shelter at San Clemente High School is now closed.

All resources and support personnel have been identified and are on stand-by to mobilize all areas of the Emergency Operations Center if a reactivation is needed.

Orange County Emergency Operations Center and Public Information Hotline Activated

The County of Orange activated and staffed the Emergency Operations Center at 2:00 P.M. on May 16, 2014.  The Public Information Hotline is staffed and ready to accept calls of inquiry in regard to the San Mateo Fire.

The Public Information Hotline phone number is (714) 628-7085.

For more information see the attached Press Release

High Temperatures and Wildfire Smoke Pose Potential Health Risk

Higher than normal temperatures are expected throughout the weekend in many inland Orange County cities, increasing the risk of heat related illnesses. In addition, smoke from the San Diego County wildfires may pose a health danger to some Orange County residents, especially those in certain high-risk groups. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a Smoke Advisory for Orange County.

“Everyone should take precautions to stay cool and drink plenty of water to reduce health risks related to the heat and wildfire smoke,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “Additional precautions are especially needed for older adults, those with preexisting medical conditions like heart or lung disease, those with disabilities, children, and those who may be working outdoors.” Dr. Handler also reminds residents to check on their family members, friends and neighbors this weekend.


County of Orange - Health Care Agency Press Release

Weekly Crime Summary

A new Weekly Crime Summary is available for  May 4 - May 10.

The most recent Weekly Crime Summaries will be listed on the homepage of our website, http://www.losalamitospolice.org/

High Temperatures Bring Risk of Heat-Related Illnesses

HIGH TEMPERATURES BRING RISK OF HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES (Santa Ana) - Temperatures in many inland Orange County communities are expected to reach high temperatures above 95 degrees this week, increasing the risk of heat related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke for those who are more sensitive to heat. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may cause serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can even be fatal. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea or vomiting and dizziness. At the first sign of heat exhaustion, move to a cool location, rest and drink fluids.  Warning signs of heat stroke may include an extremely high body temperature, unconsciousness, confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, and a throbbing headache. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call for medical assistance. Move the person to a shady area and begin cooling their body with water. Recommended precautions to prevent heat related illnesses include: • Drink plenty of water; don’t wait until you are thirsty. • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. •Stay out of the sun if possible, and when in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, and use sunscreen. • Avoid strenuous activities if you are outside or in non-air conditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area. • Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles. • Check on those who are at high risk to make sure they are staying cool – including seniors who live alone, people with heart or lung disease, and young children. • Stay cool indoors – if your home is not air conditioned, visit public facilities such as shopping malls and libraries to stay cool. For more information on heat related illnesses, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/. # # #

Traffic Hazard Advisory - Downed Power Pole

Los Alamitos police officers were called to St. Hedwig’s School at 8:16 AM this morning regarding a downed power pole that fell across the width of Orangewood.  A County of Orange contract construction crew working in the flood control channel immediately north of the school, may have inadvertently knocked the electrical pole down with its heavy equipment.  No children or school staff were injured as a result of the accident; however, one vehicle sustained moderate damage when the pole struck the rear hatch of the Acura SUV.  Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority Station #2 and work crews from Southern California Edison responded to discharge the live wires and assess the damage.  St Hedwig’s and some residential homes adjacent to the school sustained a loss of electrical power; however, traffic signals remain operational on Los Alamitos Blvd.  No eta was provided for the restoration of power. 

Summer Safety Tips for Pets

Summer Safety Tips for Pets

Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) reminds residents to keep the summer months fun and safe for all family members including pets. According to Margaret Lee, Shelter Veterinarian for LBACS, families should practice a few simple tips to keep their pets healthy and safe during the summer heat:

1. Adjust their exercise routine. Walk dogs early in the morning or late in day when temperatures are cooler. Shorten walks if necessary, and avoid runs on hot days - dogs will keep running even if they are overheating. Cats tend to restrict their own activity in the heat better than dogs.

2. Remove clothing from pets. Sweaters and other clothing on pets during the summer will trap excessive heat and may contribute to overheating. The ideal temperature for cats and dogs is between 60-80 degrees. Dogs and cats cool themselves by panting and do not have sweat glands on their skin (only on their paw pads). Cats do not pant under normal circumstances - if your cat is panting, he/she may be extremely overheated or stressed and immediate action should be taken.

3. Be cautious when walking your dog on pavement and at the beach. The hot pavement and sand can burn and blister your dog's paws, just as it would your own. Asphalt temperatures can reach 160 degrees. Keep dogs on lawns, or have them wear booties if they will be on asphalt or on sand.

4. Make sure your pet has plenty of access to shade and clean water when outdoors.

5. Never leave your pet unsupervised in a car. The temperature inside a parked car can reach 200 degrees and higher within a matter of minutes, even with the windows open. Please contact us to report an animal that is locked inside a parked car.

6. Make arrangements for pet care if you will be out of town. Ensure the care of your pet by providing proper nutrition, appropriate care and a secure environment. All pets in Long Beach are required by law to be licensed. One of the benefits to licensing is the vacation pet alert. Before leaving town, pet owners with a current license may call 562-570-PETS to register where and with whom their pet will stay with while they are gone, and ensure that they are returned home in case they get lost.

7. Make sure your pet wears proper identification. Licensing and micro-chipping pets greatly increase the chances of reuniting a lost pet with its owner. For information or assistance with dog licensing, call Long Beach Animal Care Services at 562-570-7387 or visit www. www.longbeach.gov/acs/default.asp.

8. Know the Warning Signs Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, weakness, or even collapse. They can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

9. Make sure you know the number of the emergency veterinary hospitals in your area. Take a few minutes to drive by your local emergency veterinary hospital so you can be sure you can find it an emergency when you may not be thinking as clearly as on an ordinary day.

The goal of Long Beach Animal Care Services is to make Long Beach the safest large city in California for people and animals through the promotion of responsible pet ownership and recreation. LBACS serves 600,000 residents and pets in Long Beach, Cerritos, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos and Signal Hill.

Animal Care Services is located at the P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring Street in Long Beach. The Village is open Wednesday through Friday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and is closed on Mondays, Tuesday and holidays.