LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Las Vegas police and fire officials said they are increasing patrols and enforcement across the valley for the Fourth of July weekend, focusing on illegal fireworks, impaired driving and juvenile curfew violations as crowds gather for holiday events.
Las Vegas police and Clark County Fire officials gathered to urge people to celebrate responsibly during a weekend expected to bring heavy crowds to events including First Friday in downtown Las Vegas on July 3, activities along the Las Vegas Strip, and community celebrations throughout Southern Nevada.
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LVMPD Undersheriff Andrew Walsh said illegal fireworks remain one of the biggest public safety concerns and warned that fireworks purchased outside Clark County or not approved by local fire officials are illegal and dangerous.
He said enforcement efforts so far this year have led to the seizure of nearly 20,000 pounds of illegal fireworks.
Officials emphasized that only “Safe and Sane” fireworks approved by Clark County are permitted. Walsh said if a firework leaves the ground, explodes in the air, or was purchased outside Clark County, it is likely illegal.
Authorities urged the public to report illegal fireworks through the 311 system rather than tying up 911 emergency lines. Walsh said LVMPD will dedicate extra personnel and resources through the holiday period and will continue enforcement efforts beyond the weekend.
Walsh also said police will enforce juvenile curfews during summer break.
On the Las Vegas Strip and around the Fremont Street Experience, it is unlawful for anyone under 18 to be present between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. during summer vacation, he said.
LVMPD will also conduct DUI enforcement throughout the weekend and urged people to plan ahead with a designated driver, rideshare or taxi, Walsh said.
He noted that traffic fatalities are down so far this year compared with the same period last year.
Fire officials warned that even legal fireworks can cause injuries if mishandled and said the Fourth of July is typically one of the busiest nights of the year for local fire agencies.
Dailey said the Clark County Fire Department alone handles more than 200 fire-related calls on Independence Day — nearly 10 times the volume of an average day — along with an increase in burn injuries.
Shoup reminded residents that all fireworks become illegal to use after July 4, including “Safe and Sane” fireworks.
She also warned that fireworks are not permitted in national parks and recreation areas, including Lake Mead, Mount Charleston, the Spring Mountains and Red Rock, citing extreme fire risk.
Officials also urged residents to take steps to protect pets, which can become frightened by fireworks noise and may run away.
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