Travis County and Williamson County officials are urging caution to residents who will be using fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. Fireworks can be dangerous when used improperly and can cause serious burns and eye injuries. Neither county is under a burn ban, but fires can still occur while using fireworks.

 Travis County

Although Travis County is not under a burn ban, Fire Marshall Tony Callaway urged caution to residents while using fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. Fireworks sales have already begun and will be allowed until midnight on July 4. He said the recent rain has added to the moisture in the ground, but fires are still possible and common during the Independence Day holiday.

“Be safe, follow the rules and be adults,” Callaway said. “Remember to always have adult supervision. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.”

Callaway added that anyone caught breaking the rules or utilizing prohibited fireworks will be cited.

Williamson County

Jarred Thomas, Williamson County emergency management director, said although the county is not as dry as it has been in previous years, he is urging caution while using fireworks during the July 4 holiday.

“Extra caution needs to be used when popping fireworks,” Thomas said. “It is starting to dry up. We’re not as dry as past years but not as saturated, either. There will probably still be some fires started by fireworks.”

Williamson County is also not under a burn ban or fireworks ban in the unincorporated areas of the county. However, fireworks are prohibited in Williamson County parks. Most jurisdictions have city ordinances prohibiting the use of fireworks within or near the city limits.

Residents are encouraged to look at the interactive county map at https://gis.wilco.org/maps/?viewer=countymap to view which parts of the county firework use is prohibited in.

Safety tips

Press releases from both Travis and Williamson counties outlined a few safety tips for residents to follow:

  1. Only buy from reliable fireworks sellers.

  2. Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.

  3. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

  4. Find a smooth, flat surface away from houses or other buildings, or dry leaves or grass.

  5. Be sure to have water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.

  6. Always have adult supervision.

  7. Read and follow label directions, warnings and instructions.

  8. Be sure other people are out of range before igniting fireworks.

  9. Light only one firework at a time.

  10. Dispose of spent fireworks properly.