As New Year's Eve approaches, Oklahoma City officials are taking steps to ensure that emergency services are not hampered by non-emergency calls reporting illegal fireworks. The City of Oklahoma City has provided a special hotline for residents to report any incidents involving fireworks from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. next Tuesday, as stated on the City of Oklahoma City official website.
"Complaints about fireworks overload 911 phone lines and can keep people experiencing an emergency from quickly connecting with a dispatcher," Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard Kelley emphasized, highlighting the need to keep 911 lines free for true emergencies. Residents who witness illegal fireworks use are encouraged to call the designated Fireworks Hotline at (405) 297-2222, send an email to [email protected], or text (405) 252-1053, but it is essential for these reports to include an address to be followed up on, the City of Oklahoma City will indeed follow up on complaints, which was further iterated by officials.
In the city's announcement, it's made clear that in Oklahoma City, all manner of fireworks, including sparklers, snakes, and bottle rockets are illegal not only to buy, sell, or use, but also included in the ban is usage across private and public property—this encompasses parks, lakes, and areas along the Oklahoma River. The City of Oklahoma City insistence on this matter stems from the hazard that fireworks pose, "Fireworks are a serious safety hazard to people and property and should be left to professional shows," Kelley added.
The penalties for violating Oklahoma City's fireworks ordinances are steep, violations lead to a fine of $500, confiscation of fireworks and a possible jail sentence; therefore, residents partaking in such activities should take heed of the risks, the City of Oklahoma City has made it abundantly clear that professional fireworks displays are the safer and legally permissible avenue for enjoying the festivities. In instances where fireworks result in injury or ignite a fire, citizens are reminded that 911 is the correct number to call, thus maintaining the integrity of emergency response services on a night when they are most crucially needed.
