TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — With the 4th of July holiday approaching, this is the time of year where many people will gear up to celebrate by lighting off fireworks.
The Indiana State Police say this is the time of the year they see an uptick in 911 calls in reference to ‘gun shots’ when it’s usually fireworks.
Sergeant Matt Ames wants to remind the community to be cautious when using fireworks and communicate with neighbors to ensure there is no confusion.
Local law enforcement will always respond to any calls to make sure of everyone’s safety during this holiday summer season.
” You can always call 911. We want to make sure that we’re making the environment safe for everyone,” said Ames. “The police will come out and be in the area. They’ll attempt to locate what’s going on. The people setting off fireworks. But also, for the local neighborhood that doesn’t know exactly what is going on because they may be concerned that they’re hearing shots fired versus when it’s actually fireworks.”
Looking ahead to the holiday weekend, the state of Indiana has an ordinance on fireworks.
From June 29th through July 3rd, and July 5th through July 9th fireworks are allowed from 5 p.m. until 2 hours after sunset. On Friday, July 4th hours are extended, and fireworks may be used from 10 a.m. until midnight.
