Fireworks Safety Tips

The San Angelo Fire Marshal’s Office wants to remind city residents about the fire danger associated with using fireworks for New Year’s Eve.
While Tom Green County remains under a burn ban and shooting fireworks inside the city limits is illegal, there are no restrictions in place on the use of fireworks in unincorporated Tom Green County.
“We have a lot of vegetation on the ground that is dried out becoming a fuel for wildfires,” Fire Marshal Ross Coleman said. “What also concerns us is the potential for strong gusts of wind.” For residents who insist on using personal fireworks to ring in the New Year outside the city limits of San Angelo, Coleman has some simple guidelines to avoid starting a fire:

● Select an area free of dry grasses and other dead vegetation

● Always have plenty of water available to extinguish a fire should one start. Keep a bucket of water nearby.

● Do not use fireworks when the weather forecast calls for winds above 10 mph

Beyond the danger of starting a fire, residents also should consider their personal safety as well as the safety of others when using fireworks by following these tips:

● Always read and follow manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions.

● Have an adult present and never give fireworks to children.

● Only use fireworks outdoors. It is against state law to shoot fireworks from a motor vehicle.

● Store fireworks in a cool, dry place

● Never throw or point fireworks at other people. Do not shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

● Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

● Never experiment or make your own fireworks. Only use fireworks purchased from a reliable licensed seller.

● Light only one firework at a time.

● Never re‐light a “dud” firework. If a firework does not work properly, wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water and dispose of it properly.

● Wear eye protection and never have any part of and never have any part of the body over the firework.