Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 30, 2005

Collin County updates disaster declaration and executive order to ban the use of all fireworks

(McKinney, TX) – Collin County Judge Ron Harris updated an executive order issued on Thursday to include a ban on the use of all fireworks in unincorporated areas.

Earlier this week, Governor Rick Perry issued a Declaration of Disaster for the state. Collin County is acting on authority granted through his declaration to protect the public's safety.

The county’s initial disaster declaration and executive order banned the use of all combustible materials, outdoor burning and the sale and use of certain types of aerial fireworks. The declaration and order also requested the voluntary ban of all additional fireworks. According to state regulations, county government, unlike city government, is not permitted to ban the sale of all fireworks. However, the risk of wildfires is such an imminent threat that extraordinary measures must be taken.

“We must put the safety of our residents before anything,” says Collin County Judge Ron Harris. “It is our responsibility to make certain that the risk of wildfires is kept to a minimum.”

According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions are expected to deteriorate today and tomorrow. This means there is an increased risk of wildfires. Collin County has already sustained six wildfires this week.

Residents are to report wildfires and the use of fireworks by calling 9-1-1.

The Collin County Sheriff’s Office, the Fire Marshal’s Office and constables will enforce a zero-tolerance policy on any use of combustible materials outdoors to include the flicking of cigarettes or matches, the use of any and all fireworks, burning or welding.

When a burn ban is not in effect, a burn permit is required to do any outdoor burning in Collin County. Residents may check the status of outdoor burning by calling the fire marshal’s information line at 972-548-4799.

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View the official document to review the specifics of the Executive Order.