Fun, fireworks and get-togethers are all part of New Year's celebrations. Unfortunately, there's also a big increase in non-emergency 911 calls around New Year's Eve. Over the past few years, the Minneapolis 911 center has experienced a nearly 20 percent surge in calls between Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 compared to a non-holiday period.

Help keep 911 lines open for emergencies.

When to call 911:

• If someone is injured or needs medical help due to fireworks

• If fireworks put people or property at risk

• If fireworks use escalates into violence or poses an immediate threat

When to call 311:

Call 311 for non-emergencies that don't require an immediate response, such as noise complaints or illegal fireworks use that isn't threatening life or property.

Make noise and fireworks complaints by:

• Texting "fireworks" to 311898 to report on the City's website

• Calling 311 during business hours, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday

311 reports are reviewed and responded to the next business day.

Help keep loved ones safe by using fireworks safely:

• Only use Minnesota-legal fireworks, such as sparklers, fountains, ground spinners and snappers

• Point fireworks away from people and animals

• Use fireworks in an open area away from trees and houses

• Extinguish and dispose of spent fireworks in a bucket of water

• Do not try to relight a firework

• Always use caution around fireworks and make sure children are supervised