New Year's Eve Safety Tips for Fort Bend County: Fireworks & Celebratory Gunfire Guidelines
As we prepare to bid farewell to this year and welcome the next, let’s prioritize safety in our New Year's Eve celebrations, especially here in Fort Bend County. Often, the excitement of ringing in the New Year can lead to accidents and safety hazards, especially when it involves fireworks and celebratory gunfire. Here's an informative guide to safely celebrating New Year's Eve in Fort Bend County.
The Law and Fireworks in Fort Bend County
Fireworks are legal in unincorporated Fort Bend County; however, there are some restrictions you must heed. The law prohibits igniting fireworks within 600 feet of churches, hospitals (excluding veterinary hospitals), asylums, licensed childcare centers, or any educational institutions without explicit written permission from these organizations.
Please note:
- HOA deed restrictions cannot be enforced by law enforcement. However, many HOAs explicitly prohibit fireworks in the neighborhoods they oversee. Before discharging fireworks in your neighborhood, checking your neighborhood's restrictions.
- You are legally responsible for any fireworks you set off.
- Fire Marshal’s Office and the National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS) recommend buying fireworks only from a licensed store or stand. Fireworks purchased from an individual's house or the street can be illegal explosives or professional-grade fireworks, posing a serious risk.
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Safeguard Yourself and Others: Fireworks Safety Tips
Put safety first while enjoying the festive fireworks. Here are some important pointers:
- Avoid fireworks packaged in brown paper – they're meant for professional displays.
- An adult should always supervise fireworks activities.
- Maintain a safe distance after lighting fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks at anyone.
- Have a water bucket or a garden hose ready to extinguish fires.
- Children should not play with or ignite fireworks.
- Fireworks should not be carried in a pocket or fired off in metal/glass containers.
- If a firework fails to ignite, do not attempt to relight or pick it up
- Never stand over a firework while lighting it.
- Ensure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing.
Remember, if a fire is intentionally started with fireworks that damage another's property, you could face a charge of Arson, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
The Dangers of Celebratory Gunfire
Celebratory gunfire can lead to accidents or even fatalities. Remind yourself that "what goes up, must come down," potentially causing injury, death, or property damage.
Some facts to consider:
- A bullet fired into the air can travel up to two miles and return at speeds higher than 300 feet per second, enough to fatally penetrate a human skull.
- Firing towards the ground is unsafe. The bullet can ricochet off a hard object, possibly hitting someone.
- Celebratory gunfire accounts for 4.6% of all stray bullet-related injuries and deaths.
It's illegal to discharge a firearm in Texas unless under lawful circumstances. Illegally discharging a firearm can lead to various charges, including deadly conduct, terroristic threat, assault, and even murder.
Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan emphasizes, “Celebratory gunfire is a serious threat to our community. Let’s celebrate responsibly and ensure the safety of our neighbors, friends, and loved ones. Report any incidents immediately, and let’s work together to prevent unnecessary harm and tragedy.”
By following these guidelines, we can ensure our celebrations are safe, joyful, and responsible. Wishing you a bright and happy New Year’s Eve! Stay safe, Fort Bend County!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
