July 4th ‘zero tolerance’: Twin Cities authorities outline holiday weekend enforcement
‘Zero tolerance’ for July 4th safety threats
Twin Cities law enforcement officials are stressing a renewed urgency surrounding public safety during the Fourth of July weekend, saying they intend to hold a "zero tolerance" policy for those who are breaking laws during any celebrations.
(FOX 9) - As Twin Cities communities plan Fourth of July festivities, law enforcement officials are focusing on safety and strict enforcement policies this year.
Safety plan for Fourth of July weekend
What we know:
On Wednesday, Twin Cities authorities outlined a summer safety plan for the holiday, aiming to prevent violence and respond quickly to emergencies as they arise.
Officials are reminding the public that gun violence, illegal fireworks and impaired driving will be heavily monitored throughout the holiday weekend.
Operation Dry Water cracks down on impaired boating
The Minnesota DNR and partner law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols for Operation Dry Water, a nationwide effort to crack down on boating while intoxicated ahead of the busy Fourth of July weekend.
What they're saying:
"Our top priority remains the safety and well-being of everyone as Minneapolis prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July," said Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette at a press conference on Wednesday. "Keeping Minneapolis safe is a shared responsibility, and we are grateful for the continued coordination among [Minneapolis] city departments, local, county, and state law enforcement agencies, first responders, and community partners who work together every day to prevent incidents, prepare for potential challenges, and engage directly with our residents."
Fireworks safety and Minnesota laws
Dig deeper:
Officials warn that fireworks can be not only a fire hazard, but also frightening for veterans, children and pets.
Hennepin County Medical Center’s burn trauma unit typically sees about a dozen serious fireworks-related burns each year, with 18 patients treated last year — the highest since 2020.
In previous years, groups in Minneapolis have caused problems for residents during rogue fireworks displays.
Last year, Minneapolis saw a significant drop in crime during the two weeks around July 4, reaching the lowest rates since 2021.
The Minneapolis Police Department says it will work with Park Police and other partners to keep large events like the Red, White, and Boom fireworks show safe.
What's legal:
Only non-explosive fireworks like sparklers, cones, tubes that spark, snakes, and party poppers are legal in Minneapolis. Using fireworks on public property, including streets, alleys, schools, and parks, is also against the law.
Firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles, roman candles, mortars, and shells are illegal as well.
People are encouraged to practice proper disposal by soaking used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight, then bagging them while wet.
July 4th fireworks: When to call 311 or 911
Law enforcement agencies across the Twin Cities are stressing the difference between when someone should call 311, 911 or their fire department in response to fireworks over the 4th of July weekend.
Report fireworks vs. emergencies
What you can do:
City officials stress don't call 911 over fireworks.
The Minneapolis 911 call center typically receives the highest volume of calls during the week of July 4, and keeping 911 lines clear for urgent needs helps emergency responders act quickly.
People should call 911 if someone needs medical attention, if fireworks are directed at people or property, if fireworks start a fire, or if children are using fireworks unsupervised.
For non-emergency fireworks complaints, use 311 during business hours.
The Source: Information provided by City of Minneapolis and Hennepin County officials.