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Minneapolis first responders are stepping up staffing this weekend, as they prepare for crowds of revelers celebrating the Fourth of July. 

In several recent years, the holiday has brought an uptick in dangerous and violent activity in the city. That included a 

 that injured seven people, plus several arrests and injuries due to people shooting off fireworks.

But last year was calmer. Officials say 911 calls, reports of violent crime and firework misuse went down. 

They’re hoping to repeat that this year, with increased police and Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office patrols. The sheriff’s office will also have staff monitoring social media for any word of big gatherings in parks that could turn violent. 

Officials are also asking the public to follow some guidance to stay safe, and help first responders do their jobs. 

Minneapolis city officials said the busy holiday often leads to backups on 911 calls. They’re asking the public to keep the lines clear by only calling to report time-sensitive emergencies. 

Minneapolis 911 director Joni Hodne said people with non-emergency concerns should report them to 311 instead. That includes noise complaints, and concerns about illegal fireworks that aren’t posing an immediate danger to people or property. 

“Keeping 911 lines open is critical and ensures that first responders can reach priority calls quickly, save lives, and protect property,” Hodne said. 

In past years, she said, 911 has gotten hundreds more calls than usual on the Fourth of July, typically in the evening. That eased up last year, after the office starting urging people to call 311 for non-emergencies.

The city’s 311 line will be staffed from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Fourth of July. After hours, residents can leave a voicemail or reach out 

The city’s 911 center will also have about five additional people answering phones, for 20 staff total.

 to several downtown roads and some lakeside parkways. City officials said those are areas where they expect large crowds and celebrations, and the road closures will allow extra room for pedestrians.

Several of those are around the city’s 

, an all-day event featuring food trucks, dance shows, live music and a fireworks show at 10 p.m. 

The Stone Arch Bridge will also be closed Saturday, ahead of and during the fireworks.

Minneapolis interim fire chief Melanie Rucker reminded residents to stick to legal fireworks. Minnesota bans products that explode or launch into the air. 

But even legal fireworks can be risky, she said. The fire department has gotten reports in the past of grass fires from fireworks. 

“Find a safe outdoor place to light them off, away from buildings, storage tanks, grass areas, and materials that can easily catch fire,” Rucker said. “Keep a hose nearby if possible, just in case something goes wrong.”

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Estelle Timar-Wilcox

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Minneapolis first responders are stepping up staffing this weekend, as they prepare for crowds of revelers celebrating the Fourth of July. The holiday has brought jumps in 911 calls in recent years.

Minneapolis law enforcement preparing, urging safety ahead of busy Fourth of July weekend

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