Rainfall credited
Thinking of popping those fireworks tonight? Officials say know the rules and keep safety a priority for you and your family.
Given unseasonably high temperatures and the onset of continued drought conditions, Harris County Commissioners Court approved an order on December 4 to restrict the sale and use of certain fireworks, namely skyrockets with sticks and missiles with fins. That action was advisable at the time, given the lack of rainfall and the requirements of State Law regarding the timing of any restriction on the sales and use of certain fireworks.
“The court order included a provision to remove those restrictions if the average drought index for Harris County, as measured on the Keetch-Byram scale, dropped below 575, “said Harris County Fire Marshal Mike Montgomery. “The area has received significant rainfall over the past two weeks, and the average KBDI for the county now stands at 485, so the restriction on the sale and use of skyrockets with sticks and missiles with fins has been lifted.”
Laws and ordinances vary within Harris County, and most cities have outlawed the use of any consumer fireworks within city limits. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all related regulations before using fireworks of any kind.
“Public safety of citizens is the top priority,” said Montgomery. “Enjoy the celebration of the New Year holiday, but to do it in such a way that protects yourself, your family, and your neighbors.”
For additional information about this story or the fireworks sales season, please contact Lt. Todd Mitchell at 281-436-8000. For more information about fireworks safety tips and the fireworks rules, please visit the Harris County Fire Marshal’s website at www.hcfmo.net.
