This Fourth of July holiday weekend is sure to present local authorities with numerous challenges.

From the long, three-day weekend for the Fourth this year to the 250th celebrations going on across the area, people will be looking to have a good time throughout the weekend. On the WHOW Morning Show, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister told the Hart Media Group that virtually all consumer fireworks that "go bang" are illegal under both State law and City ordinances.

Chief Meister notes that beyond the legal penalties, the improper handling and disposal of fireworks keep local fire departments very busy.

For those celebrating, the Chief is imploring the public to practice basic safety, keep a water source nearby, and simply be neighborly by talking to one another to resolve noise complaints before calling the police.

The Lincoln Police Department will also have an increased presence on the roads this weekend. Chief Meister is reminding drivers that extra traffic enforcement will be out actively looking for impaired drivers to keep holiday travelers safe.

Chief Meister reminds us that fireworks in Lincoln will be on Friday night, originating at the Park District. There is also a parade scheduled in downtown Lincoln for the morning of the Fourth of July.