December 29, 2025 | From New Orleans Fire Department
NOFD Extends Warm Wishes for a Safe and Happy New Year
As we bring 2025 to a close and prepare to welcome 2026, the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) reminds all residents to prioritize safety while celebrating the arrival of the New Year on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN ORLEANS PARISH
The New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) reminds residents that consumer fireworks are illegal in Orleans Parish. The use of illegal fireworks significantly increases the risk of residential fires and can result in permanent injuries, including scarring, loss of vision, and even dismemberment. NOFD Superintendent Roman Nelson urges everyone to treat all fireworks as suitable only for use by trained professionals. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), amateur fireworks not only endanger the users but also pose serious risks to bystanders, nearby homes, and other structures. Pyrotechnic devices—from sparklers to aerial rockets—cause thousands of fires and severe injuries each year. As we welcome 2026, the NOFD encourages everyone to celebrate safely by attending the public fireworks displays being offered throughout the metro area, rather than using illegal consumer fireworks at home. Let’s start the New Year safely and responsibly.
NOFD URGES RESIDENTS TO STAY SAFE WHILE KEEPING WARM
The New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) is reminding residents to keep warm safely this season. Residents should refrain from using alternative heating sources such as stovetops and ovens, which are inherently unsafe and pose significant fire risks. The risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from unventilated burning of natural gas or other flammables is significantly higher. For more information on how to stay warm safely, please visit the NOFD’s website at www.nola.gov/nofd and click on “Safety Tips” under the “Topics” tab.
WORKING SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES
The New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) cannot stress enough the importance of having working smoke alarms in every home. Even a few seconds of early warning can make the difference in surviving a residential fire. To help keep residents safe, the NOFD will supply and install 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms in the homes of any Orleans Parish resident in need. This service is provided free of charge. Residents can schedule an installation by calling 504-658-4714 or submitting a request online at www.nola.gov/free-smoke-alarm and clicking on “Request a Smoke Alarm.”
On behalf of the entire New Orleans Fire Department, we wish all residents a Happy and Safe New Year.
-30-