As North Texans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the City of Dallas and Dallas police are urging residents to prioritize safety, avoid dangerous behavior, and keep emergency lines available for life-threatening situations.
The City of Dallas reminded residents that 911 should only be used for emergencies such as fires or severe injuries. Non-emergency issues, including reports of illegal fireworks within city limits, should be directed to Dallas 311, which is available 24/7.
“Keep emergency lines free for those in real need,” the city said in a Fourth of July safety message shared on social media.
The city encouraged residents to “celebrate safely this 4th of July weekend” and reminded them to contact 311, not 911, for fireworks complaints.
The Dallas Police Department also warned against celebratory gunfire, emphasizing the potentially deadly consequences of firing weapons into the air.
“Please remember this important message as we approach July 4th: What goes up must come down. Random gunfire is deadly,” the department said in a social media post.
Random gunfire is not only dangerous, but it is also against the law. The reckless discharge of a firearm within city limits is a Class A misdemeanor, carrying a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000, The Dallas Express reported.
Fireworks Safety
Safety organizations recommend that the public enjoy celebratory fireworks by attending professional pyrotechnic displays, noting that fireworks cause more than 19,000 fires each year.
For those using legal consumer fireworks where permitted, experts recommend:
- Never allowing young children to handle fireworks or sparklers.
- Lighting only one firework at a time.
- Never relighting malfunctioning fireworks. Instead, soak them in water before disposing of them.
- Keeping a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Never aiming fireworks at people, animals, vehicles, or buildings.
- Wearing eye protection while lighting fireworks.
Because fireworks are illegal within Dallas city limits, residents are encouraged to report violations through Dallas 311 rather than calling 911 unless there is an immediate threat to life or property.
Heat, Water, and Grilling Safety
With hot temperatures expected across North Texas, safety officials recommend staying hydrated by drinking water regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol, and spending time in air-conditioned spaces when possible.
Families gathering around pools, lakes, or rivers should maintain constant adult supervision of children, designate a “water watcher,” and ensure everyone on boats wears a properly fitted life jacket.
Holiday grillers should inspect gas hoses for leaks, keep grills away from homes and combustible materials, and never use grills inside garages or enclosed spaces. Keep children away from grills.
Protect Children and Pets
Children are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and hearing damage from fireworks. Experts recommend dressing children in lightweight clothing, applying sunscreen, encouraging frequent water breaks, and considering ear protection during fireworks displays.
Pet owners are encouraged to leave animals indoors during fireworks, where they are less likely to become frightened and run away. Ensuring pets have updated identification tags or microchips can help reunite them with their owners if they become lost.
