Police urge residents to give up fireworks on New Year's Eve

TALLINN - The North Prefecture of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board has urged residents to not use fireworks this New Year's Eve. 

"What if we gave up fireworks this year? What if we donated the money we would spend on fireworks to animal charities instead? To women's crisis shelters? Children in need?" the prefecture said in a social media post.

The post says that every New Year's Eve, we have to look at flashing blue lights amid the fireworks and revelry as rescue vehicles, ambulances and police are responding to cases of fireworks having done harm to people and their property.

"Let's handle this New Year's Eve in a peaceful way and leave the rockets alone -- that way there will be fewer accidents and the holidays will bring more joy to people and animals alike. Safe New Year to all!" the North Prefecture said.