Fireworks use again restricted in Shackelford County
By Melinda L. Lucas
With a county-wide burn ban in place and a resolution restricting the sale and use of “bottle rockets,” local emergency responders say cele-brations 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 Joel Viertel. “Everyone needs to be very careful.”
Because of extremely high temperatures over the past few days following several weeks of frequent rainfall, Shackelford County has again been placed under a county-wide burn ban as of Monday, June 26.
The Shackelford County commissioners also passed 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.
“We’ve had some moisture over the last couple of months, so there’s plenty of fuel to catch fire,” said Shackelford County Fire Department chief Brad Henry. “And with the temperatures we’ve had, it’s drying out in a hurry.”
He also reminded residents that no fireworks can be detonated on or from a county road. If caught,the violator can be ticketed for the infraction 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 fires 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.
Viertel suggested having a flat, visible surface when launching firework displays.
“Make sure that everything is moved away and you have a clear visual of what you are doing when you set them off,” he explained. “Also, be very mindful of where things are going to land once they fall from the sky, and have a water hose or something close by just in case.”
Viertel recommended having a pump-up spray bottle handy with a quarter cup of Dawn detergent mixed with water to put out spot fires.
Both Henry and Viertel commented that fire department volunteers would rather be enjoying the Fourth with their families rather than fighting fires.
“I really urge people to consider personal safety and property destruction when enjoying their fireworks,” said Viertel. “Many people who use fireworks are conscious of these things, but sometimes they can get so involved that they forget about personal safety. And kids generally don’t think about safety during fireworks fun.”
There will be several nearby firework shows for those who are not wanting to celebrate with their own fireworks, including Clyde Lake on June 30 and July 1, Hubbard Lake on July 1, and Abilene Freedom Festival on July 3 and 4.
