A popular American pastime is troubling local officials who are facing “exceptional” drought conditions.  Montgomery, Harris and Waller Counties have banned certain types of fireworks this Fourth of July season. 

“Skyrockets with sticks” and “missiles with fins” are not to be sold or used to celebrate in these counties if drought conditions do not improve, according to local authorities. The restrictions come as no surprise to local citizens and fireworks vendors.

“We have had severe droughts since 1996 that have affected fireworks sales,” says Chester Davis, President of the Texas Pyrotechnic Association and owner of American Fireworks on SH 249 in Pinehurst.  “We had the drought in ’96 and 2005, and from 2005 to 2011 we have had on and off drought conditions that have really affected the firework industry. We are not unaccustomed to what’s going on.”

Hoping to avoid a complete prohibition of sales, Davis has suggested limiting the legal sale period to four days, rather than the standard 11.

According to Davis, who has worked in the industry for 40 years, this step proves to significantly limit accidents, fires, and problems associated with the holiday without a total ban on the sale and use of fireworks.

“It’s a lot better than telling the American people — more importantly, Texans — that they can’t celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks,” Davis said.

The current restrictions on skyrockets and missiles have pulled approximately 5-10 percent of fireworks from Davis’ shelves, but there is more at stake than his own seasonal profit. 

The St. Anne Youth Group works in the store and earns a commission to help pay for their trips and activities. If the county judge and commissioner’s court set forth further limitations in the coming weeks, the church group’s fundraiser could be impacted. Currently, American Fireworks is prepared to open to the public on June 24.

Despite industry interests, local fire departments are deeply concerned for the safety of their communities.  Experiencing the worst drought since recordkeeping began in 1895, Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department Chief, Gary Vincent faces a difficult situation.

“I’m sure the commissioner’s court recognizes that there are people who make their income from the sale of fireworks and are very considerate of their needs, but we also have to look at the larger need of the safety of the community at this time,” Vincent said. 

That safety is at a high risk, with fires popping up weekly due to extremely dry conditions.  The area has not experienced significant rainfall since October 2010, and it will require multiple soaking rains to end the drought. 

At this point, Vincent worries even a small blaze may turn into something local firefighters will not be able to control. Additionally, Vincent reminds the community that any individual who starts a fire is ultimately responsible for its effects.

“I hope that people will be extremely cautious, but I do anticipate that there will be problems because of the drought,” Vincent said.

He suggests attending public fireworks displays, which will take place locally in Tomball, Magnolia, and The Woodlands on July 4. These celebrations will be heavily monitored by local fire departments and will likely occur regardless of drought conditions.

Looking ahead at the weather forecast, local officials and fireworks vendors alike hope for the best—significant rainfall before Independence Day—but are currently preparing for the worst.  For up to date information regarding the use of fireworks in local counties, visit: hcfmo.net/ (Harris County), co.montgomery.tx.us/ (Montgomery County), and co.waller.tx.us/ips/cms/ (Waller County).

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