The holidays aren’t over yet. As Christmas decorations come down and New Year’s Eve approaches, authorities are urging people to celebrate responsibly so you don't turn festive nights into emergencies.  

Christmas may be over, but holiday risks don’t end when the gifts are unwrapped. Every year between December 25 and January 1, emergency officials see a spike in dangerous calls.  A major concern for Guam Police and Guam Fire is home-made canons, which are illegal.   

GPD Chief of Police Stephen Ignacio told KUAM News, "They are considered in the realm of explosives, so we discourage people from that and remind them that it does cause a lot of alarm. People start to call us in about those loud cannons going off and some of them sound very realistic."

These cannons can potentially explode without warning and lead to severe burns, loss of limbs, and even death.  Captain Nick garrido with GFD adds it can also lead to accidental fires, saying, "The majority of these cannons that utilize lighter fluid, they can generate loud, explosive sounds. However, the lighter fluid can be highly flammable and under certain conditions, can cause accidental fires."

The chief of police also warns that shots fired in residential areas put neighbors at risk, from children, pets to property.  "It’s illegal to discharge your firearm in residential areas. Whatever you shoot up in the air, is going to come down eventually. So we want to avoid people getting injured or property being damaged by stray bullets," said Chief Ignacio.

As New Year’s approaches, fire crews are preparing for a busy week. They’re warning about fire hazards still inside homes, with Garrido saying, "Please follow the manufacturing guidelines on those Christmas lights and other lights they do use for decorations or specific to the holidays. Follow the manufacturing guidelines that are on there. There are things for outdoor use only and things for indoor use only."

Garrido adds there’s still many families on island cooking at gatherings, and urges parents to keep an eye out for their children near hot surfaces.  "Be mindful of hotpans, the stove, the burners and the BBQ grills around the kids," he said. "Especially around the younger kids running around and playing, be mindful of them and where you put those items."

As for outdoor activities, the community is reminded to heed advisories from the national weather service as the island sees more rain and stronger winds in the rainy season.  Garrido continued, "When you’re out hiking and out enjoying any of our outdoor areas, please make sure you’re always with a buddy, look out for each other and call 911 should you need assistance or see somebody that is in need of assistance."

He leaves with this important message before you hit the roads heading home.  "Over the last several weeks, we have seen an increase in the number of auto accidents. Please slow down when you’re out on the road. Use child protective restraints, carseats, and also be mindful of your surroundings," he said. "Do not drink and drive, use a designated driver and if any emergency should arise, please contact 911."

A reminder to celebrate, but do it safely.