6 things to know about firework use in Bexar County ahead of Fourth of July celebrations

Before you land yourself in trouble with the law or miss out on the fun of fireworks, here are a few things you should know about firework use in Bexar County. 

It is legal to sell and use fireworks in "unincorporated Bexar County"

You may use fireworks in unincorporated parts of Bexar County. The unrestricted sale of fireworks period began on June 20 and will run through July 4. 

There are some restrictions to where you can use fireworks

"It is illegal to discharge fireworks within 600 feet of a hospital, sanitarium, veterinary hospital, school or church; and within 100 feet of a fuel dispensing station for flammable or combustible liquids; and to discharge fireworks at or from a motor vehicle," a release from the Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office said. 

It is illegal to sell, buy or use fireworks in San Antonio 

"The purchase, use and transport of fireworks in the City of San Antonio is illegal and can result in a Class C Misdemeanor which can carry a fine of up to $2,000," the San Antonio Police Department said in a post.

FIREWORKS USE IN THE CITY IS ILLEGAL! San Antonio residents can protect their homes and families by reporting any...

Posted by San Antonio Police Department on Saturday, July 1, 2017

Bexar County is not under a burn ban

Contrary to an outdated website, the Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office said on Monday the county is NOT under a burn ban. Other South Central Texas counties, however, are. The counties highlighted in red are under a burn ban.

You can be charged with arson if you cause a fire

Be careful where you point those Roman Candles -- the Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office said arson charges can be brought against an individual who recklessly causes a fire, "regardless of intent."  

You should report the unsafe or illegal use of fireworks 

Those who see unsafe or illegal uses of fireworks in the county should call the fireworks hotline at 210-335-FIRE. The hotline will be available through July 5. Medical emergencies and fires caused by fireworks should be reported by calling 911.

The Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office gave the following safety tips before the holiday:

• Select an area free of dry grasses and other dead vegetation.
• Keep a bucket of water or a water hose nearby.
• Do not use fireworks when the weather forecast calls for winds above 10 mph.
• Always read and follow manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions.
• Have an adult present and never give fireworks to children.
• Only use fireworks outdoors. It is against state law to shoot fireworks from a motor
vehicle.
• Always have plenty of water available to extinguish a fire should one start.
• Never experiment or make your own fireworks. Make sure you only use fireworks
purchased from a reliable licensed seller.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never re‐light a “dud” firework. If a firework does not work properly, wait 15 to 20
minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water and dispose of it properly. • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks, The Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office said, is to watch a show put on by professionals.

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