How to have a safe and happy New Year

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - With New Year's Eve just one day away, local authorities give recommendations to Yuma residents on how to have a safe, and happy New Year.

Every New Year’s Eve the Yuma Police Department responds to numerous reports of “shots fired” within the city limits.

Some people, even discharge a firearm into the air to bring in the New Year.

The Yuma Police Department would like to remind the community this is a felony offense and encourage anyone who witnesses this type of criminal activity to call the police department immediately.

Another risky new year practice is using fireworks.

Fireworks can be enjoyable and spectacular, especially around holidays; however, they can also cause serious injury and start dangerous fires.

In general, if a firework leaves the ground, shoots flaming material into the air, or explodes, it is illegal.

The use of permissible consumer fireworks is further restricted within the City of Yuma to private property.

City ordinance says that "the use, discharge, or ignition of fireworks is prohibited on all public property including, but not limited to, public buildings, parking lots, public parks, sidewalks, streets, public schools, and public rights-of-way at all times, except as otherwise provided for herein or by permit for supervised public displays only."

The city ordinance also is clear that the user is responsible for the costs of any emergency response resulting from the use of fireworks.

Local authorities say they want the community to enjoy New Year’s Eve with family and friends, just asking to please do it safely.