(Tuesday, July 1, 2008) – With the Fourth of July approaching, officials from the Little Rock Fire and Police Departments reminded Little Rock citizens to leave fireworks to professionals. The Little Rock City Code prohibits the possession, manufacturing, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks within the City limits.

“We are not discouraging people from enjoying fireworks as they celebrate Independence Day,” said Assistant Fire Chief Don Kinney. “We are, however reminding them that in order to do that they need to attend one of the official fireworks displays throughout Central Arkansas.”

The purpose of the ban on private fireworks usage is to protect the health and safety of residents and their property. “Each year, numerous people get seriously hurt when they are shooting off fireworks,” said Chief Kinney. “We hear the phrase IED – improvised explosive device – every day on the news, and yet that is exactly what fireworks are – explosive devices,” said Chief Kinney. “Let’s keep explosives in the hands of professionals where they belong.”

“In addition,” Chief Kinney continued “sparks or ashes from fireworks can start fires which damage homes, cars, and other property.” Each year, nationwide fireworks cause approximately 25,000 grass, brush, dumpster and other fires.

According to Lt. Terry Hastings of the Little Rock Police Department, “The City of Little Rock Communications 3-1-1 Division will provide extended hours for citizens to call 3-1-1 with firework related calls on the 4th of July.”

The hours that citizens may call firework calls in via the 3-1-1 number are 3:00 p.m. through 2:00 a.m. on July 4, 2008. Any firework calls before 3:00 p.m. or after 2:00 a.m. citizens may call 371-4829 the (Non-emergency Police number).

To ensure that the City's 9-1-1 lines are open for emergencies, the City encourages all firework related callers to call 3-1-1 or 371-4829 to report fireworks within the City limits.

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