Fireworks Safety

1.Where can I use fireworks legally and safely?
Check your city law to see if the use of fireworks is prohibited.
Always use fireworks in open areas. Larger fireworks need larger, open areas.
If fireworks are not allowed in the city, be sure to get permission when firing on someone else's property
You should not shoot fireworks from a roadside.
Some counties have "approved fireworks shooting sites .

2.If a burn ban is in effect in my county, does that apply to fireworks?
No. A fire ban or burn ban is different from a fireworks ban. County Commissioners Courts have the authority to enact "burn bans" for all or part of their counties, once drought and heat have reached levels that are determined by the counties to be appropriate for a ban. These burn bans can outlaw or limit outdoor activities that generate fire or the danger of fire, but the burn ban does not extend to the specific use of aerial fireworks. Specific state law has been enacted to give counties the ability to control the use of certain aerial fireworks during drought conditions. This authority is in place of, not in addition to, county burn bans.

3.What are the best precautions to take to prevent injury?
Remember, Safety first. If Texans follow the directions printed on the label and adhere to the common sense safety guidelines distributed by Texas Pyrotechnic Association members, they're sure to have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.

4.How old do you have to be to buy fireworks? How do you tell?
Under state law, 12 years old is the minimum age to purchase fireworks. If there is a question as to age, retailers ask to meet a parent, older sibling or other adult. This is done to validate age, and to remind the purchaser that he or she should use fireworks under adult supervision, follow all the directions and adhere to the safety guidelines.

5.What are the different categories of retail fireworks?
There are ground-based and aerial fireworks. There are several types of ground-based fireworks - roman candles, sparklers, mortars, multi-shot items, fountains, and firecrackers, as well as some specialty items such as tanks or an aircraft carrier. There are primarily two types of aerial fireworks - stickrockets and missiles with fins or rudders. All of these, when used as directed, can be enjoyed safely.