Lafayette Reporter

Lafayette, LA – With the Fourth of July approaching, Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG) aims to ensure a safe and responsible celebration. The following safety tips focus on fireworks and pets.

**Fireworks Safety:**

- Detonate devices at least 200 feet away from structures, vehicles, and rubbish.

- Never allow children to light fireworks.

- Never operate fireworks while impaired.

- Light devices one at a time and monitor embers with a bucket of water or hose nearby.

- Discard detonated items by wetting them down to prevent reignition; do not dispose of them in a trash container immediately.

- Always read and follow label directions carefully.

- Adults should always supervise fireworks activity.

- Fireworks should be placed on a hard, smooth surface before ignition.

- Never light fireworks in your hand.

- Quickly light one firework at a time, and move away quickly after lighting.

- Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, cars, or buildings.

- Keep fireworks away from small children.

- Do not alter or make your own fireworks.

The Lafayette Fire Department reminds citizens that it is illegal to possess, use, handle, sell or ignite fireworks within city limits. Fireworks may be set off only in unincorporated areas of Lafayette Parish from June 25 through July 5 from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., extending until 1:00 a.m. on July 5. Minors under the age of 18 are not permitted to possess, handle or purchase fireworks.

**Pet Safety:**

- Keep your pets secured inside your home.

- Provide them with a safe place to hide.

- Use ambient noise such as a radio or TV to mask the sound of fireworks.

- Keep them busy with toys or treats.

- Consult a vet about medication if your pet fears loud noises.

- Update pet ID information in case your pet gets lost.

If you lose your pet, check the Lafayette Animal Shelter & Care Center Lost Pet webpage at lafayettela.gov/lascc/lost-found/lost-a-pet.

**Schedule Reminders:**

Transit Services: All transit services will be suspended for the day. Regular transit schedules will resume on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Garbage Collection: Garbage collection will run as normal. Residents are advised to place their garbage bins at the curb according to the usual schedule.

Dean Domingues Compost Facility: The compost facility located at 400 Dugas Road will be closed. It will reopen with regular operating hours on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Stay safe and have a happy Fourth of July!

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