With vendors across Harris County starting consumer fireworks sales Dec. 21 ahead of the holiday and new year, Harris County Fire Marshal officials are reminding residents to follow safety protocols and proper disposal guidelines.

“Fireworks are allowed in unincorporated Harris County, but there are areas that fireworks are not allowed in unincorporated Harris County,” HCFMO Public Information Officer Brandi Dumas said. “Our message is always safety first.”

Dumas said officials see everything from minor to major injuries every year from fireworks. The fire marshal’s office recommended that communities attend a professional display to avoid any risks.

“We also warn against the use of sparklers because people think they’re innocent, but sparklers burn six times hotter than boiling water," Dumas said. "So a lot of hand injuries come from sparklers.”

What residents should know

The fire marshal’s office recommended the following safety tips:

  • Follow the law and be sure fireworks are legal in your community and with your homeowners association
  • Read and follow the directions and warning labels on fireworks packaging
  • Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks
  • Light only one firework at a time
  • Do not point fireworks at homes, buildings or people
  • Do not use fireworks within 600 feet of a place of worship, hospital, veterinary hospital, licensed child care center or school
  • Never consume alcohol or drugs while shooting fireworks
  • Make sure there is a bucket of water or water source nearby for emergencies
  • Soak used fireworks prior to disposing of them in the trash
  • Be considerate of neighbors when it comes to noise and the trash left behind

Firework use can even cause distress to pets and veterans, Dumas said.

“Consider your neighbors who are veterans and consider pets,” Dumas said. “A lot of loud noises and quick pops could trigger a lot of people, especially those who have served in our military.”

Zooming out

Dumas said unincorporated Harris County was no longer under a burn ban, which was lifted Dec.5, and while current conditions were better with not a lot of dry vegetation, she said fire departments will still be busy responding to fires.

Did you know?

The U.S. imports more than $10 million worth of fireworks annually with 92.6% of the items coming from China, according to 2025 trade market data trends from commerce publication WorldCity Inc.