Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office stresses safety, responsibility on New Year’s Eve

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is encouraging responsible New Year's Eve celebrations.

Offering tips to ring in the new year safely, the sheriff's office reminds residents to never shoot a gun into the air, even to celebrate.

Not only is it illegal, but it can turn deadly since you can't control where the bullet lands.

"Physics and gravity are undefeated," Chief Deputy Col. Steve Healey said in a news release Wednesday. "When a bullet leaves the barrel of a gun, it's going to come down somewhere. You don't get to control where — or who — it hits."

Most fireworks are also illegal in Jefferson County. If you light up any sparklers or snappers, be mindful of neighbors affected by loud noises — that includes veterans, younger children and pets.

"The sounds of fireworks or gunfire can be serious triggers," Healey said. "Being responsible with how we celebrate helps ensure everyone in our community can ring in the New Year safely and peacefully."

Pet owners are encouraged to take their animals outside before peak celebration hours, keep them indoors and secure them in a safe place.

If you see that someone has had too much to drink, help them get home safely instead of waiting for law enforcement to get involved.

"New Year's Eve should be about memories you want to keep, not regrets you'll have to live with," Healey said. "If alcohol is part of your celebration, make the responsible choice before the first toast. Line up a designated driver, schedule a rideshare or have a plan to get home safely."

Sheriff's deputies will be patrolling, looking for impaired drivers and reported gunfire.

'Just too easy' | Louisville mother turns grief into warning after teen daughter dies by suicide

LMPD detective shared login to Flock camera system with DEA agent conducting immigration search

Court orders Kentucky to release records in driver’s license fraud investigation