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Oakland Police Warn Residents Against Fireworks, Gunshots On New Year's Eve

OAKLAND (CBS SF) -- With New Year's Eve approaching, Oakland police are warning residents that firing guns or fireworks into the air is illegal and highly dangerous.

Every year, police receive complaints at this time of year about celebratory gunfire and fireworks, according to police spokeswoman Johnna Watson.

Police will be deploying patrol officers to areas of the city that have high levels of gunshot and fireworks activity, as indicated by ShotSpotter sensors, Watson said.

All fireworks are illegal within the City of Oakland. Violators ages 16 and older can face fines of $1,000, and parents and guardians of minors may also be cited.

The illegal use of fireworks can be reported by calling the Fireworks Hot Line at (510) 238-2373. Gunfire should be reported by calling 911, or (510) 777-2133 by cellphone.

Illegal fireworks can also be turned in at Oakland fire stations 1, 3, 4, 5, 18 and 20.

Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco and Bay City News Service. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

 

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