New Years 2022: How To Safely Use Fireworks In Round Rock

Round Rock TX

28 December, 2021

1:22 PM

Description

ROUND ROCK, TX — Some people may like to ring in the New Year with the bang of fireworks, but in Round Rock, it's illegal to discharge them in the city. The city explicitly prohibits the sale or use of any fireworks inside the city limits. Use or possession of fireworks is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $2,000, officials said. Fireworks include devices which make a visible or audible effect when set off, authorities said. The City's ordinance specifically outlaws possession and use of sparklers, skyrockets and firecrackers. Authorities said most firework burn injuries involve children. These are usually burns to the hands and eyes causing vision impairment and disfiguring scars. Sparklers are considered to be the biggest danger to children. The fireworks burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries, according to the National Fire Prevention Association. If you live outside the city limits, you have limitations to set off fireworks, authorities said.Williamson County residents have a 5,000-foot fireworks-free zone outside city limits. This map shows where fireworks can be legally discharged — and where they cannot. There is not a fireworks ban or burn ban in place for unincorporated areas of Williamson County; however, fireworks are not permitted in Williamson County parks. Before you shoot, here's what you need to know:Do not let your children buy fireworks without adult supervision Only buy from reliable fireworks sellersNever experiment or attempt to make your own fireworksStore fireworks in a cool, dry placeFind a smooth, flat surface, away from the house or other buildings, dry leaves or grassBe sure to have water handy in case of a malfunction or fireAlways have adult supervisionWhen you're ready to shoot:Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworksAlways read and follow label directions, warnings and instructionsBe considerate of your neighborsOnly ignite fireworks outdoors and away from houses and other structuresLight only one firework at a timeNever try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functionedNever give fireworks to small children, even sparklers cause serious burnsBe sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworksNever throw fireworks at another person, vehicle or animalNever carry fireworks in your pocket Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containersDispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustibleFor a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips, please visit www.fireworkssafety.org or https://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/videoresource/fsfireworks.pdf.