The Hays County Commissioners Court agreed to extend the county’s burn ban until further notice at its Dec. 22 meeting after a recommendation by Hays County Fire Marshall Nathan Mendenhall. 
The burn ban will not impact the sale of fireworks, however due to low humidity, Mendenhall says elevated fire weather conditions are possible throughout the county this week. Additionally, he says because of underlying drought conditions in the area fireworks may have the potential to cause spot fires.
“This means that all fireworks that are normally allowed to be sold will be sold,” Mendenhall said in a press release. “This does not mean that there is no danger.”
According to Mendenhall the county’s current average ketch-byram drought index (KBDI) is at 499, the high in the county is 586. Firework restrictions are not in place since the county did not reach statutory levels of KBDI. 
Mendenhall also addressed the improper disposal of fireworks and advices residents to dispose of fireworks properly by placing bins containing spent fireworks outside and away from buildings. He says common-sense and proper disposal can go a long way in ensuring no one encounters the devastation of a fire. 
“Use extra caution, be prepared and have a plan,” Mendenhall said in a press release. “Simple lives can save lives and property.”