We are a week away from 4th of July celebrations and city officials are issuing a few reminders to help keep residents safe.
LPD Public Information Manager Erika Thomas says city ordinance permits the use of fireworks only from 8:00 a.m. to 11p.m. on July 3 and 8:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 4.
Thomas says no fireworks are allowed before or after those times and no bottle rockets, sky lanterns or helicopters are permitted. Residents need to be 18 years of age or older to buy and set off fireworks, unless supervised by an adult.
To report fireworks violations, you must have an address or description of the property before calling the Lincoln Police Department (LPD) non-emergency number, 402-441-6000. Call 911 only for emergencies.
Lincoln Fire and Rescue urges families to leave fireworks use to experienced, responsible adults. Other safety recommendations include the following:
- Fireworks are allowed only on private property, and must not be directed towards other premises, people, or public areas.
- Do not let children light fireworks. Provide children glow sticks and avoid sparklers, which can reach 1,200 degrees.
- Those lighting fireworks should not wear loose clothing.
- Avoid lighting fireworks near leaves, dry grass, or other flammable materials.
- Make sure people are positioned a safe distance away from where fireworks are being lit.
- If a fireworks device does not explode, do not attempt to relight it.
- Have a bucket of water nearby to make sure used fireworks are extinguished.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose ready nearby.
In addition, let fireworks cool for ten minutes and soak them in water for 15 minutes. You can put them in a bag and place it in the trash can. For details about fireworks cleanup click here.
Residents can request pickup of unused or unexploded fireworks by calling the Lincoln Bureau of Fire Prevention at 402-441-7521.
Sarah Mason, a coordinator with Keep Lincoln and Lancaster County Beautiful (KLLCB), reminded residents that fireworks debris is litter and it is the community’s responsibility to properly dispose of debris.
As part of the effort to encourage others to dispose of fireworks properly and safely, KLLCB offers free yard signs with the message “If you blow it up, clean it up. Protect our water. Prevent Litter. Clean up firework debris.” Signs are available through July 3 and can be picked up at the Health Department, 3131 “O” St., Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Signs are on the first floor near the north entrance.
For more information on reducing litter in the community, visit lincoln.ne.gov/CleanStreets.