Austin fire and police departments join together to warn about fireworks use

Austin fire and police departments join together to warn about fireworks use

Wednesday, 01 July 2009

Each year, there are hundreds of brush, grass and structure fires across the state started by fireworks, doing millions of dollars in damage and risking the lives of innocent bystanders.

With more than 11 days of record above 100 degree heat recently, the Fourth of July holiday weekend is worrisome this year for local firefighters and police officers. The Austin Fire Department and Austin Police Department are issuing a reminder that fireworks are illegal within the Austin city limits. Nationally, there is an average of more 10,000 injuries per year from fireworks, with 40 percent of those being children ages 10-14.

This year, APD will partner with AFD to help enforce the ordinance ban on fireworks. It is illegal to possess fireworks within the City of Austin. It is illegal to use or sell fireworks within Austin and within 5,000 feet outside the city limits. The fine is $248 and if your fireworks cause bodily harm and/or property damage, AFD can charge you with assault and/or arson, both felony crimes. APD will be responding to fireworks complaint calls made to the 3-1-1 system. Do not call 9-1-1 for fireworks complaints.

The U.S. Department of Transportation does not classify the following items listed as common fireworks, and their use is allowed within city limits:

• Wire sparklers
• Smoke bombs
• Glow worms and snakes
• Poppers, trick noisemakers, snappers

However, sparklers can reach temperatures of 1,800 degrees and smoke bombs shoot a flame of two to three inches when ignited so even though these fireworks are legal, they can still be dangerous, according to fire and police officials. APD and AFD encourage citizens to attend one of the many free fireworks displays that will be happening throughout the city.