Watch Those Fireworks!

Fireworks enthusiasts should be careful and considerate of neighbors during the Independence Day weekend – especially because much of the county remains dry, even with recent rainfall, says Comal County Fire Marshal Kory Klabunde.

As of Thursday, June 29, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI),  used to assess the need for burn bans and fireworks restrictions, was at 455, which means moisture is more than 4.5 inches below the ground.

Although not yet high enough for Commissioners Court to enact restrictions on outdoor burning, the number nevertheless indicates parts of the county remain susceptible to wildfires, Klabunde said.

“Areas around Canyon Lake and Bulverde did not receive as much rain over the weekend, and are still very dry,” Klabunde says. “If you plan to shoot fireworks, make sure to have a source of water close by, and use consideration for your neighbors, especially those who are veterans or elderly, or who have animals sensitive to the noise.”

Residents within incorporated municipalities should make sure there are no local restrictions against setting off fireworks in city limits, Klabunde says.

Meanwhile, Klabunde and his deputies are inspecting fireworks stands, which opened last week, to ensure the safety of the operators and their customers.F

Fireworks Banned in New Braunfels

The possession or use of any kind of firework is prohibited (illegal) inside the city limits of New Braunfels.

Anyone found to be in possession of or using fireworks within the city limits may be issued a citation and have their fireworks confiscated.

Individuals can legally transport fireworks through the City in a locked glove compartment, in the trunk, or in the bed of a truck.

The law requires that purchased fireworks remain in the original, unopened packaging and be placed in the storage sections of cars or trucks, away from passenger seats.

Citizens wishing to report a fireworks or noise violation should call the non-emergency Police Department line at 830-221-4100. For additional information contact the New Braunfels Fire Marshal’s office, at 830-221-4200

General Rules

Klabunde urges residents and visitors to review this excerpt from Texas Occupations Code chapter 2154.

Also remember fireworks cannot be sold to anyone under 16 years of age or to anyone who is intoxicated.

Ҥ 2154.251. Prohibited Use of Fireworks
(a) A person may not: (1) explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, a hospital other than a veterinary hospital, an asylum, a licensed child care center, or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization;
(2) sell at retail, explode or ignite fireworks within 100 feet of a place where flammable liquids or flammable compressed gasses are stored and dispensed;
(3) explode or ignite fireworks within 100 feet of a place where fireworks are stored or sold;
(4) ignite or discharge fireworks in or from a motor vehicle;
(5) place ignited fireworks in, or throw ignited fireworks at, a motor vehicle;
(6) conduct a public fireworks display that includes Fireworks 1.3G unless the person is a licensed pyrotechnic operator;
(7) conduct a proximate display of fireworks that includes Fireworks 1.3G or Fireworks 1.4G as defined in NFPA 1126 Standards for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience unless the person is a licensed pyrotechnic special effects operator and has the approval of the local fire prevention officer.”