Austin residents are preparing for the Fourth of July, with various events and activities planned throughout the city. The Austin Fire Department Special Events Division reminds residents that fireworks are illegal to possess or use within Austin city limits unless a permit has been issued for a professional display.
Fireworks Rules
Violations can result in a fine of up to $2,000. However, the city allows certain items without a permit, including wire sparklers, smoke devices, snakes/glow worms, and trick noisemakers such as party poppers and snappers.
In unincorporated Travis County, fireworks are permitted but cannot be discharged within 600 feet of a church, child care center, school, or hospital, from a vehicle, or in Travis County parks. Residents can contact their local Emergency Service District for permitting information.
Road Closures
Riverside Drive will close between South First Street and Lee Barton Drive starting at 9 a.m. on July 4 for the Star Spangled Fest at Auditorium Shores and reopen at 10:30 p.m.
The American Automobile Association Texas projects 5.7 million Texans will travel at least 50 miles from home between June 27 and July 5, with the vast majority driving. July 2 is expected to be the busiest day on the road, and drivers should expect heavy traffic and prepare with routine vehicle maintenance before departing.
Pet Safety and Heat Precautions
Fireworks can be distressing for animals, and the Austin Fire Department recommends keeping pets indoors in a secure, familiar environment and leaving a television or radio on as a distraction. County emergency services also recommend ensuring microchip and ID tag information is current before the holiday.
Heat-related illness can happen quickly in hot weather conditions. The Austin Fire Department advises residents to pre-hydrate before going outside, wear light-colored loose-fitting clothing, take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
