While the new year is indeed worth celebrating, residents still must be cautious about how they celebrate, the Long Beach Police Department said in a statement Monday.
The LBPD is reminding residents that “celebratory” gunfire, like shooting up into the air, is illegal and dangerous.
“Discharging a firearm into the air has resulted in injuries and deaths across the country,” the LBPD said in a statement. “In most instances when a falling bullet strikes a person, it does so in the head or upper body and is likely to cause serious injury or death. In California, discharging a firearm into the air is a felony and punishable by up to three years in state prison. If a stray bullet strikes someone, more serious consequences exist, including the possibility of the shooter being arrested for murder. “
The LBPD will be out in full force on New Year’s Eve enforcing this law and all other laws.
“New Year’s Eve should be a time of celebration but, unfortunately, reckless behavior can negatively impact many lives,” said Chief Robert Luna, “Please take personal responsibility to help make this a safe holiday for everyone.”
Residents are advised to call 911 to report gunfire, as well as any other suspicious or criminal activities.
The LBPD also released the following safety tips for party hosts and attendees:
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- Plan ahead by naming a “designated driver” before any drinking begins
- Serve non-alcoholic beverages as an option to your guests
- Remember that drinking lowers inhibitions and may cause you to make poor decisions
- If you do drink, call a taxi, use public transportation, or ask a sober friend or family member to drive you home
- Trust your instincts and recognize warning signs
- While out, be careful what you post online; don’t alert others that you are not at home and your house is vulnerable to burglary
- Report drunk drivers, Call 9-1-1
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