FIREWORKS SAFETY ENCOURAGED FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE

  

Local fire officials remind the public to celebrate the new year with care.

While Washington County has received some rain recently, last week’s cold snap dried out grass and vegetation, something that people who are looking to set off fireworks should take note of.

Brenham Fire Chief Roger Williams and Fire Marshal Steven Loving were guests on this week’s KWHI Community Corner to discuss safety with fireworks during New Year’s festivities. 

Loving says while fireworks can be very enjoyable, they need to be respected as explosive devices that, if not handled properly, can cause serious injury.

City of Brenham ordinance prohibits the possession, transportation, storage, sale, or use of fireworks within the city or 5,000 feet of city limits.

Anyone in the county who plans to use fireworks should read and follow the directions on the label, avoid firing fireworks toward a building, and never attempt to make their own fireworks.  Close supervision of children and containing the area where fireworks are used is strongly recommended.  In addition, spent fireworks should be submerged in a bucket of water overnight or until they are otherwise cooled, then they can be wrapped in plastic and disposed of in the trash or at a solid waste center.

Williams says to always have water or a fire extinguisher ready when using fireworks. 

In case of an emergency, people can call 911 or the Brenham Fire Department at 979-337-7300. 

The full Community Corner program with Williams and Loving can be heard here.