Williamson County Officials Outline Safety Tips For Fireworks Celebrations

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — County officials have outlined the areas where consumer fireworks can be legally used for the upcoming Independence Day holiday. along with providing tips to ensure safe celebrations.

"With the Fourth of July right around the corner, many people are asking where consumer fireworks can legally be used in Williamson County," officials said in a prepared statement. "Most jurisdictions have city ordinances prohibiting the use of fireworks within or near the city limits. 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."

To check an interactive county map with the fireworks-free buffer zone area, click here. Officials advise users to click the "I ant to..." option and then choose "View Notifictions."

County officials stress the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional display sponsored by various jurisdictions an organizations throughout the area. While there is no fireworks ban or burn ban in place for unincorporated areas of the county, fireworks are not permitted in Williamson County parks, officials said.

Related story: Here's Your Fireworks Guide For July 4, 2017, For Austin And Surrounding Cities

"Consumer fireworks can be dangerous when used improperly, causing serious burns and eye injuries," officials said. "Always check with your local fire department/district for recommendations or suggested precautions to follow before deciding to use them; then, follow these safety tips from the Williamson County Office of Emergency Management."

County officials offered a variety of tips for those insisting on setting off their own fireworks.

Before you shoot:

• Do not let children buy fireworks without adult supervision.
• Only buy from reliable fireworks sellers.
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Find a smooth, flat surface, away from the house or other buildings, dry leaves or grass.
• Be sure to have water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Always provide adult supervision.

When you’re ready to shoot:

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Always read and follow label directions, warnings and instructions.
• Be considerate of your neighbors.
• Only ignite fireworks outdoors and away from houses and out buildings.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Never give fireworks to small children, even sparklers cause serious burns.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never throw fireworks at another person, vehicle or animal.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Dispose of spent fireworks properly.

For a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips, visit www.FireworksSafety.org. For other emergency preparedness tips, follow the county on Facebook at www.facebook.com/preparingwilco. For additional information, visit wilco.org.

>>> Photo credit: Beatrice Murch via Wikimedia Commons