Short Fuse For Illegal Fireworks? Tell Gilroy Police

GILROY, CA — The police department wants to fire up law enforcement activists in the community.

Gilroy's force has partnered with a free smartphone app called "Nail 'Em," which allows for real-time, instant communication between the citizenry and officers who are assigned to work illegal fireworks enforcement.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to download the free app and use it to report illegal fireworks on July 4 between 7 p.m. and midnight. The application, which can be downloaded from the app store for iOS and Android devices, will only be monitored during this time period.

Citizens have the option to stay completely anonymous.

The process is simple: Those who see a nearby launch or explosion can report the activity by using Nail 'Em’s reporting mode. Nail 'Em uses your device's GPS to access the user's general location, so location services must be turned on.

The app allows the one reporting to add information that helps the officers pinpoint where the violation is occurring such as an address or general description of the area. The more information provided, the better chance the police can take enforcement action.

Citizens can still report illegal fireworks over the phone using 911 for emergencies only and 408-846-0350 for non-emergencies. The app is the preferred method of reporting fireworks on the holiday.