210 S. McDonald Street
Suite 626
McKinney, Texas 75069
www.collincountytx.gov
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Public
Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Leigh Hornsby, Public Information Officer |
June 14, 2006
Collin County issues disaster declaration because of drought; bans use of all fireworks
(McKinney, TX) – Because of drought conditions, Collin County Judge Ron Harris today issued a disaster declaration and also issued an executive order prohibiting the outdoor use of combustible materials.
“A lack of rain, low lake levels and a dry environment place the county at a great fire risk,” says Collin County Judge Ron Harris. “We must initiate these measures to protect our homes and property.”
Combustible materials include, but are not limited to, the use and discharge of all fireworks (aerial and non-aerial 1.4G fireworks); discarding of cigarettes, cigars or other flammable materials; materials used in activities such as welding or any other activity that could result in a fire. At this time, no hot work permit will be required. However, persons who weld, cut, and use open torches or other hot work operations in an outdoor environment must abide by Chapter 26 of the International Fire Code. (Hot work operators may contact the Collin County Fire Marshal’s Office at 972-548-5589 for details.)
The use of charcoal barbeque grills, gas grills and smokers and outdoor above ground fireplaces are not prohibited at this time. However, a previously issued burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including ground fires, bon fires and campfires. Additionally, the sale and discharge of certain aerial fireworks, being skyrockets with sticks and missiles with fins, is prohibited.
Violation of these orders is a Class C Misdemeanor. There will be increased law enforcement patrols and “spotter plane” flights to provide early warnings of grass fires and to further protect county residents.
The disaster declaration and executive order pertain to unincorporated areas and the county’s smaller cities. County residents are asked to check with their individual larger cities regarding individual ordinances and orders.
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