County fireworks use restricted
By Melinda L. Lucas
With a county-wide burn ban in place and the addition of a resolution restricting the sale and use of “bottle rockets,” local emergency responders say any holiday celebrations involving fireworks need to include safety and common sense.
Firefighters warn that dry brush and vegetation, mixed with fireworks, can easily ignite, and there are rules and ordinances that must be followed by everyone setting off fireworks.
“We have concerns for both personal safety and fire caution,” said Albany Volunteer Fire Department chief Travis Gardenhire. “Everyone needs to be very careful.”
Because of ongoing dry conditions, Shackelford County has basically been under a burn ban for months, with an occasional few days reprieve after rainfall.
Several large area wildfires prompted Shackelford County commissioners to pass an ordinance earlier this month prohibiting certain kinds of fireworks, specifically “skyrockets with sticks” and “missiles with fins,” in any portion of the unincorporated area of Shackelford County.
“Despite the fact that we haven’t had much rain this year, there’s plenty of fuel to catch fire,” said Shackelford County Fire Department chief Brad Henry. “That’s obvious from what’s happened in Eastland and Taylor counties.”
He also reminded residents that no fireworks can be detonated on or from a county road. If caught,the violator can be ticketed and should expect to be fined for a Class C misdemeanor. If fireworks use causes a fire, additional fines can be assessed.
“Don’t set fireworks off on public roads or public land,” said Henry. “Make sure that you have the landowner’s permission. Also, make sure that you have a good water source available to try to extinguish any fire before they get out of control.”
Fireworks are prohibited by state law within the city limits of both Albany and Moran.
Fireworks users within the city limits risk up to $500 fines for use of any fireworks within the city limits, according to Judge James Breeden.
There will be several nearby firework shows for those who are not wanting to celebrate with their own fireworks.
The Abilene Freedom Festival will have various activities, bands, vendors, and concessions on both July 2 and 3.
Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce will also be hosting a fireworks display at Hubbard Creek Lake on Saturday, July 2.
There will also be fireworks at the Clyde Lake on Saturday.
