Top Tips for a Fun - and Safe - New Year's Eve
IMPORTANT NOTE: Before making plans to shoot fireworks in your neighborhood, verify whether fireworks are permitted within your neighborhood in accordance with your governing documents. If you are unable to locate this information, visit your neighborhood webpage on MyNeighborhoodNews.com and contact your management team listed in the "HOA Information" section.
The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office urges residents to take precautions for New Year's Eve to ensure a fun - and safe - evening of celebrations.
Fireworks can be dangerous, so it's important to take precautions to safeguard your loved ones and pets. Instead of setting off fireworks at home, consider attending public displays that are put on by professionals. However, if you do decide to use fireworks, be sure to follow safety guidelines and obey the law.
BEFORE YOU SHOOT
HAVE A WATER SOURCE NEARBY
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy to properly soak fireworks before disposing of them.
- Place connected garden hoses at all sides of your home for emergency use.
CLEAR AREA OF COMBUSTIBLES
- Clear roof surfaces and gutters to avoid build-up of flammable materials such as leaves and other debris.
- Store gasoline in an approved container away from your home.
WHERE TO SHOOT
A person may NOT use fireworks:
WITHIN 600 FEET OF:
- A church, hospital, veterinary hospital, asylum, licensed child care center, public or private primary or secondary school, institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization.
WITHIN 100 FEET OF:
- A place where flammable liquids flammable compressed gasses are stored and dispensed. A place where fireworks are stored or sold.
ADDITIONAL ADVISORIES
- Ignite or discharge from a motor vehicle.
- Place ignited fireworks in or throw ignited firework at a motor vehicle.
- Do NOT use on property belonging to another person without permission.
WHEN YOU SHOOT
FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER'S LABEL ON FIREWORKS
- Ignite fireworks properly by reading and following the directions and warning label's on fireworks packaging.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND PETS
- Never allow kids to play or ignite fireworks. When igniting fireworks, keep them a safe distance away.
- Do not let pets sniff or ingest fireworks. Aside from a severe burn, your animal can become ill or even die due to ingesting chemicals and heavy metals in fireworks.
AFTER YOU SHOOT
- SOAK: Soak used fireworks and duds in a bucket for at least 15 mins.
- DRAIN: Drain excess water on grass or gravel.
- WRAP: Wrap soaked fireworks in a plastic bag so they do not dry out.
- TRASH: Place bag of soaked fireworks in trash bin and move trash bin to the end of the driveway away from combustible materials.
IF A FIRE OCCURS: Call 9-1-1 immediately and join your family at your established meeting place.
NYE and Pets
- Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat. Include their favorite bed, toys, and blankets to make it soothing.
- Limit Exposure to Noise: Keep your pet indoors during fireworks or loud celebrations. Close windows, draw curtains, and play soothing music to mask the noise.
- Distraction and Play: Engage your pet in activities or games to redirect their focus. Interactive toys or puzzles can help distract them from the noise.
- Thundershirts or Wraps: Consider using anxiety wraps or vests that provide gentle pressure, which can help calm some pets during stressful situations.
- Consult a Vet: For severe anxiety, consult your vet. They might suggest medications or calming aids, such as Trazadone, to help alleviate your pet's anxiety.
- Microchipping and ID Tags: Ensure your pet's microchip and ID tags are updated with current information in case they get scared and escape.
