LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On Wednesday, Little Rock police and fire officials shared some helpful tips and reminders regarding safety ahead of July Fourth celebrations.
Little Rock Police Chief Heath Helton's first reminder was that people don't need safety tips because the city bans the personal use of fireworks.
"The City of Little Rock bans the use of personal fireworks within city limits," Helton said. "City Code 18-103 says, 'No person shall possess, sell, manufacture, or use fireworks except in accordance with the fire prevention code."
But what if you're in a spot where private fireworks displays are allowed?
In that case, it's important to remember that fireworks, while fun, can also be dangerous.
"With an estimated $109 million in property damage loss last year,” said Phillip Durham with the Little Rock Fire Department. “The Little Rock Fire Department responded to 102 calls on July Fourth alone."
Doug Schneider from Torpedo Joe’s Fireworks Superstore shared several tips on how to set off fireworks safely.
Some were a bit more obvious.
"Do not shoot fireworks at other people,” Schneider said.
There were also those you might not think of or require more planning.
"One thing we encourage is to have some water close by,” Schneider said. “Just in case something doesn't go out."
Schneider also advised that children be supervised when setting off fireworks and that one should never light anything in one's hand.
He said if you're still concerned, many fireworks have instructions on the package.
"Some of our suppliers have a great checklist on the back about do's and don'ts,” Schneider said.
But even if you take all these precautions, it can still be dangerous, so officials recommend leaving things to the pros if you're within city limits.
"Just sit back and relax and enjoy the various public, professional displays of fireworks that are going on in the community that have been set up,” Durham said.
If you see or hear fireworks where you’re not supposed to, you can report it to city officials by phone at (501) 371-4829 or by email at LRPDFireworksViolations@littlerock.gov.