WilCo Issues 4th Of July Fireworks Safety Guide

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — While many anticipate the fun times ahead for the Fourth of July, Williamson County officials urge the tactics of safety. To that end, WilCo on Tuesday issued a guide to ensure that those celebrating emerge unscathed.

First, a reminder: Most jurisdictions have city ordinances prohibiting the use of fireworks within or near the city limits, officials remind residents. "If you are unsure of the ordinances, it is always safer to check with the city or local fire department prior to the purchase or discharge of fireworks." Helpfully, officials provided a link leading to an interactive map illustrating areas encompassing fireworks-free buffer zones.

FIREWORKS-FREE BUFFER ZONES IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Still, WilCo would prefer if you enjoyed fireworks set off by professional handlers: "Officials believe the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional fireworks display sponsored by various jurisdictions and organizations throughout the area," officials wrote. "There is not a fireworks ban or burn ban in place for unincorporated areas of Williamson County; however, fireworks are not permitted in Williamson County parks."

For your convenience, Patch has compiled guides to professional fireworks displays scheduled on July 4 throughout the region — across Williamson County and Austin. Click on the links below to find one that appeals to you:

• Round Rock 4th Of July Fireworks: 2019 Guide Scheduled Time
• Leander 4th Of July Fireworks: 2019 Guide Scheduled Time
• Cedar Park 4th Of July Fireworks: 2019 Guide Scheduled Time
• Austin-Area 4th Of July Fireworks: 2019 Guide Scheduled Time

Also worth reminding: Consumer fireworks can be dangerous when used improperly, causing serious burns and eye injuries. "Always check with your local fire department/district for recommendations or suggested precautions to follow before deciding to use them," officials stress. "The Williamson County Fire Marshal’s Office has these tips for keeping you safe."

So without further adieu, here are those tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands.
  Never light them indoors
• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Never ignite devices in a container
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
• Never use illegal fireworks

For more fireworks safety tips and information on fireworks code, visit the Williamson County Fire Marshal’s Office webpage on Fireworks: https://www.wilco.org/Departments/Fire-Marshal/Fireworks. For other emergency preparedness tips, follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/preparingwilco.

Every year, people are injured, maimed or worse in handling fireworks. By all means, have fun! Celebrate America's birthday! But above all else, please be safe.