Officials have set up a hotline to report fireworks being improperly used, or set off where they shouldn’t for July Fourth.
SAN ANTONIO — The Fourth of July is upon us, which means our attention will soon turn to the skies as the sun sets for sights of firework spectaculars.
Woodlawn Lake Park will once again play host to the city’s official (and free) holiday celebration, culminating in a dazzling fireworks and drone show at 9 p.m. But sure as the hot dogs will be plentiful, Woodlawn Lake Park won’t be the only place in the San Antonio area where firecrackers are lighting up the sky.
You might even be considering shooting off your own fireworks if you live in the metro. Before you do, make sure you know the do’s and don’ts… especially if you don’t want to land a hefty fine.
Where are fireworks allowed?
For starters, they’re illegal in City of San Antonio limits. Sparking them in the city can spark a Class C misdemeanor on your record, opening you up to a $2,000 fine.
Fireworks are, however, permitted in the unincorporated areas of Bexar County. That being said, you’re not allowed to pop them off in the following places:
- Within 600 feet of churches, hospitals, asylums, child care centers or schools, unless you have written permission from the organization in question
- Within 100 feet of where flammable liquids for compressed gases are being stored
- Within 100 feet of where fireworks are stored or sold
- Inside or from inside a motor vehicle
What else should I know?
Yes, there are some more regulations to note in Bexar County.
You’re not allowed to set off 1.3G (professional grade) fireworks unless you’re a license pyrotechnics operator. You’re also not allowed to organize and initiate a display of fireworks that include 1.3G or 1.4G fireworks before an audience unless you have a license or have the permission of a local fire prevention official.
Any violations of those rules can net you a $200 fine if you end up damaging property. Law enforcement also now have the ability to charge someone with arson “if they recklessly cause a fire that damages a structure or other property, such as a motor vehicle.”
How to stay safe
Just as important as making sure you’re setting off fireworks where you’re legally allowed? Ensuring your safety while doing so.
The Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office is offering these tips ahead of July Fourth.
- Buy fireworks only from licensed vendors
- Only use your fireworks outdoors, and in clear and open areas
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case you need it
- Never let children handle or set off fireworks
- Don’t use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Dispose of your fireworks the right way, including dousing all debris after you’re done
- Don’t try to relight a firework if it doesn’t go off, but move away and submerge it in water
Of course, if you or someone else is injured by fireworks, call 911 right away.
How to report illegal fireworks
The county has set up a hotline for those who spot unsafe or illegal use of fireworks and would like to report it. The number is 210-335-FIRE (3473), and it will be available through Saturday.
The county says 111 fireworks incidents were reported on July Fourth last year.