Fireworks are an American tradition and as the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office would like for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday. Beautiful and exciting to watch, fireworks are nevertheless explosive devices that can cause serious injuries and property damage. If using fireworks, please do not consume alcohol and have an accessible fire extinguisher, water supply or bucket of water nearby for emergencies.

As a reminder, pursuant to City of Sweetwater Texas ordinance, the use or discharge of fireworks, including safe and sane fireworks, are prohibited, except for designated areas where considered private property outside Sweetwater city limits within the county. If using fireworks in a designated area, please remember to read and follow all instructions and avoid lighting fireworks near flammable items or in areas where there is dry grass or brush that could catch fire.

In addition to extra patrols focused on intoxicated driving over the holiday, deputies will be prepared to enforce laws related to illegal fireworks, issue citations, and confiscate fireworks being used outside designated areas.

Using or possessing illegal fireworks is a Class C Misdemeanor.

Each year deputies respond to complaints of Fourth of July gatherings that get out of hand due to intoxication and illegal fireworks. These complaints include physical injury, property damage or neighborhood disturbances. If you are impaired in any way when you use fireworks, you increase the possibilities of misuse and injury to yourself and others. Citizens should consider that damage or injury caused by a careless act involving fireworks can bring significant civil liability.

If camping with family and friends, please remember to use extreme caution with your campfires and grills. Only light fires and grills in designated areas, never leave a fire or grill burning unattended, and always have plenty of water available. As you enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations, please remember to have a designated driver if you’ve been consuming alcohol – do not drink and drive.