While public fireworks displays are available in Dallas this New Year’s Eve, private usage remains prohibited in most DFW cities.
In the State of Texas, consumers aged 16 and older can purchase 1.4G fireworks, but their usage varies by county and city, according to WFAA. The state also limits the time frame fireworks can be sold. Typically, they are available just before major holidays, like New Year’s and Independence Day, though some exceptions exist depending on the county.
Accidents involving fireworks can strain emergency services. Last year, fireworks were involved in 10,200 people being treated in emergency departments throughout the country.
Joni Belz, program manager for trauma service at Texas Health Arlington Memorial, said in a news release that fireworks commonly cause “burn injuries and occasionally eye injuries, we see bone fractures and skin cuts or lacerations,” reported the Fort Worth Report.
Fort Worth Fire Department Battalion Chief Richard Harrison warns of the danger of fireworks.
“Sparklers burn as hot or hotter than any other pyrotechnic you’re looking at, and we’re putting them in the hands of 3-year-olds,” Harrison told the FWR. “We see the injuries every year.”
Here’s a rundown on the legality of fireworks in some of the major cities in DFW:
Dallas
Fireworks are “illegal to possess, store, handle and/or use” within city limits, according to the City of Dallas website. Those caught violating the law can face a fine of up to $2,000 and the potential seizure of the opened fireworks.
To report illegal fireworks, call 311.
Fort Worth
Despite Tarrant County allowing fireworks in designated areas, they remain illegal in Forth Worth and within 5,000 feet beyond the city’s boundaries. You can report illegal fireworks activity on the city’s website or by calling 817-392-4444.
Arlington
Like Dallas and Fort Worth, private fireworks are illegal in Arlington. To combat their usage, the City of Arlington launched an interactive website permitting residents to provide details about firework activity to the Arlington Fire Department’s 911 Dispatch Center.
The non-emergency line 817-274-4444 can also be used to report incidents.
