Nueces County commissioners ban use, sale of aerial fireworks during Fourth of July season
Nueces County commissioners voted this week to ban the use and sale of aerial fireworks in unincorporated areas of the county over the Fourth of July season.
The ban will go into effect on Tuesday, June 14, and end when drought conditions no longer exist in Nueces County, a news release from the county stated.
Aerial fireworks affected by the ban include skyrockets with sticks, bottle rockets and missiles with fins. All other types of fireworks are permissible, the release added.
The ban was recommended by Annaville Fire Chief and Nueces County Fire Chiefs Association President Michael Clack, who said dry conditions have made the county vulnerable and prone to brush fires.
"I know it's not a popular decision, but we are very dry," Clack said during the commissioners' Wednesday meeting, adding that the National Weather Service projects rain to be scarce until the week of the Fourth of July.
"At that point it'll be too late. Everything will be dead and dry, and we need to try to protect our citizens and our community from any other fires."
According to the National Weather Service, much of Nueces County and its surrounding areas are affected by severe drought conditions. Hot, dry and breezy weather in South Texas could result in elevated fire weather conditions.
Much of South Texas is at moderate risk for fire danger, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.
Fireworks are currently banned within Corpus Christi city limits, including city beaches. Anyone found igniting fireworks inside city limits could face a fine of up to $2,000 per package.
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Ashlee Burns covers trending and breaking news in South Texas. See our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe.
This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Nueces County commissioners ban aerial fireworks over July 4 holiday
