Fort Bend County Judge KP George Considers Emergency Declaration Ban on Fireworks as Preventative Action
Style Magazine Newswire | 6/24/2022, 12:08 p.m.
County Judge KP George along with the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court on Wednesday signed a Declaration and Order prohibiting outdoor burning. The Declaration is part of the preventative action being taken as severe drought conditions persist across the county and throughout the state.
While the declaration does not implement a countywide ban on fireworks, it does prohibit open flames which include the burning of trash, campfires, non-regulated burn barrels, and other open flame devices, that can ignite combustible materials and result in personal injury, property damage, and loss of life.
“Fire conditions across Fort Bend County remain extremely dangerous. It’s essential that we consider the potential danger that the private use of fireworks could cause to our residents and their property if these conditions persist,” said Judge George.
With drought conditions predicted to worsen, the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal will continue to monitor conditions using the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, Fort Bend County is at 655. On a scale of 0 to 800, anything over 600 is considered an extreme fire danger.
As the fourth of July holiday quickly approaches, Fort Bend County Judge KP George will continue to evaluate the drought conditions, and if needed, consider filing an Emergency Declaration that will ban the personal use and retail sale of fireworks in Fort Bend County without a permit issued by the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal.
“If the conditions become overwhelming hazardous to our area residents, then I will consult with our Fire Marshal and follow his advisement. There is a big difference between an organized and supervised public display of fireworks, like the ones that are currently scheduled throughout the county, and the private, unsupervised, and more dangerous display of fireworks,” said KP George.
Judge George continues to emphasize his sole purpose is to protect residents and property while upholding public safety.