By Sahar Chmais
HAYS COUNTY -- The Hays County burn ban notice will remain in place for the immediate future.
Hays County Fire Marshal Nathan Mendenhall recommended the notice during the Hays County Commissioners Court due to the low humidity the county is experiencing. According to Mendenhall, the average Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) in Hays County is at 499 and the high in the county is 586. Elevated fire weather conditions are possible across the area later this week.
Fireworks sales will be allowed because the county did not reach statutory levels of KBDI to restrict certain fireworks.
“This means that all fireworks that are normally allowed to be sold will be sold,” Mendenhall said. “This does not mean that there is no danger.”
Rockets and mortars can potentially start spot fires due to hot debris falling into light ground fuels that are exacerbated by underlying drought conditions in the area, Mendenhall added.
“The burn ban does not affect the sale and use of fireworks,” Mendenhall said, “so we must all remain alert between now and January 1 as the potential for spot fires remains a concern.”
Mendenhall also warned about the dangers of improper fireworks disposal. Every year, firefighters see house fires that start when expended, but hot, fireworks are put in the trash can in a garage which are not covered with dirt or water.
It is best to keep bins containing spent fireworks outside and away from buildings and use proper disposal methods, Mendenhall explained .
“Use extra caution, be prepared and have a plan,” Mendenhall said. “Simple steps can save lives and property.”
