As the countdown to the New Year commences, officials in Bexar and Kendall counties are tightening restrictions on fireworks amid concerns for safety due to exceptionally dry conditions. Both areas have enacted a ban on certain types of aerial explosives, such as missiles with fins, and rockets with sticks to mitigate the risk of wildfires, a threat exacerbated by the drought that has gripped the region. According to Fox San Antonio, Brady Constantine, Kendall County Fire Marshal, highlighted the challenges faced when flying fireworks are involved stating, "Any break or damage to that firework can change the total trajectory of it."
Despite the restrictions, fireworks stands have reported a bustling trade as the holiday approaches. "At midnight, everyone wants to light off a grand finale," said Michael Rios, owner of Liberty Fireworks, in an interview with KENS 5. Rios clarifies that while specific items have been banned, the popular offerings that continue to fuel sales like the artillery shells, and multi-shot cakes are still very much within the legal fray and are the anticipated top sellers for the season.
The drive for a safe and spirited New Year's Eve has not dampened, with shoppers like Genesis Mendez looking for "We were looking for more small ones, ones that you can put on the ground, stuff like that" as reported by Fox San Antonio. Local authorities, however, remain vigilant and are preparing for any eventualities that may arise from the use of fireworks. Commenting on the logistical challenges involved in firefighting in rural territories, Constantine explained to Fox San Antonio, "The city fire department can generally be anywhere in five minutes or less, whereas out in the county, you have a majority of volunteer fire departments anywhere west of San Antonio, really."
In addition, non-profits like the Hill Country Fire Coalition of Texas are lending their expertise, advising rural homeowners on preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of fires, with Christie Wiley, the director, emphasizing the importance of noncombustible landscaping. Meanwhile, Rios and his team are doing their part in prioritizing safety by distributing fire marshal information cards to customers and underscoring the importance of responsible celebration. According to the same KENS 5 report, Rios expressed his optimism for the season's closures, "I’m very optimistic." "The last two days, December 30 and 31, we bring in about 75 percent of the business."
As the ban primarily targets fireworks that are prone to erratic trajectories, and thus, greater fire risk, Kendall County officials are reminding residents and revelers alike that soaking used firework shells in water is among the most effective ways to prevent fires. With the restrictions set between December 20 and January 1, fines could reach up to $500 for violators, finding in vigilant enforcement a deterrent against the illicit use of banned fireworks and a means to ensure a safer passage into the New Year.
