With the Fourth of July approaching, the Jamestown Police Department is hoping to remind residents to enjoy the holiday safely. That includes following state law banning use of fireworks.

According to Jamestown police, officers have responded to 31 fireworks complaints in June.

“We would like to remind the community that the possession and use of fireworks is illegal in New York state,” Chief Harry Snellings said in a press release Thursday.

Snellings pointed out that charges for unlawfully dealing with fireworks range from a violation to a Class A misdemeanor.

The chief did note that use of sparkling devices are permitted within Chautauqua County and the city of Jamestown. “Sparklers” are defined as devices that are ground-based or hand-held that produce a shower or white, gold or colored sparks.

“Additional effects may include a colored flame, an audible crackling effect, an audible whistle effect and smoke,” JPD said. “These devices do not rise into the air, do not fire inserts or projectiles into the air and do not explode or produce a report (an audible crackling-type effects).”

Snellings said use of fireworks creates “both a fire and safety hazard.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks on average account for 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 16,900 outside and other types of fires.

On average, fires from fireworks reportedly cause three deaths, 40 injuries and $43 million in damage in U.S. every year.

“We encourage our community members to enjoy the several professional fireworks shows that are available throughout the county this Fourth of July,” Snellings said. “Have a safe and happy holiday.”