The evening skies of Bexar County's Fourth of July celebrations were less marred by the distress of emergency sirens this year. KENS 5 reported a notable 29% decrease in fireworks-related fire incidents, according to officials. This year, fire crews responded to 35 fires, compared to the 49 fires that erupted during the same period last year.
Of note, a decline was observed in more serious incidents, with two structure fires this Fourth of July compared to six in 2023. These incidents alone accounted for an estimated $207,000 in damages. The reduction in these fires is paralleled by a drop in the number of traumatic injuries caused by fireworks. Of the injuries reported, one involved a child who sustained facial injuries and required hospitalization, while two adult males also encountered mishaps resulting in harm to their hands and face.
In total, Bexar County fire officials itemized the blaze breakdown as follows: 19 grass/brush fires, 10 trash fires, one fire classified as 'other', two structure fires, and three that led to traumatic injuries, as per News 4 San Antonio. The county's emergency services also remained active with over 1,700 calls received, nearly half of which necessitated a 911 response on the nation's birthday.
Adding to the preventive measures, the Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office took enforcement action by issuing a citation to an individual for unauthorized fireworks sales. This intervention also led to the seizure of $10,000 worth of fireworks products being sold illegally. This civic engagement embodies an on-going effort to mitigate risks associated with the use and sale of fireworks in an area that has been witness to the potential devastation they may entail. The San Antonio Fire Department has yet to release its comprehensive report for the July Fourth-related calls this year.
