On Independence Day and over the weekend following, the City of Mesquite Police and Fire Department proactively helped residents enjoy safe celebrations.

Both departments conducted specialized patrols regarding illegal fireworks and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) concerns. Extra personnel were dispatched to areas with historically high call volume on the Fourth of July in previous years.

Mesquite Police Officers responded to 177 calls for service for fireworks reports and 40 calls for service for sounds of gunfire. More than 104 pounds of fireworks were confiscated, and 10 handguns and four rifles were seized. Officers made nine DWI arrests.

Additionally, the Police fireworks hotline fielded 295 calls and entered them on a “heat map” when callers did not know the exact location of the fireworks. This helped to reduce the number of calls going to the 9-1-1 communications center and kept phone lines open for emergency calls.

The Mesquite Fire Department identified one call for a grass fire related to fireworks. There were two calls related to fireworks explosions that did not cause fires. No injuries were reported because of fireworks or gunfire.

“Every year we make progress toward our residents celebrating the holiday in a safe manner,” City Manager Cliff Keheley said. “Many thanks go to all of our Police, Fire and Dispatch personnel and Call Center volunteers who worked on the holiday weekend to keep our community safe.”