As families across the Coastal Bend prepare for Fourth of July barbecues, beach trips and fireworks, the Corpus Christi Fire Department is urging residents to celebrate safely during one of its busiest weekends of the year.
The Corpus Christi Fire Department Deputy Daniel Valdez joined 3NEWS First Edition to share common mistakes firefighters see every Independence Day and remind residents that fireworks remain illegal within Corpus Christi city limits.
“We will get calls for firework injuries,” Valdez said. “Burns to their hands, burns to the face. We also will get calls for smoke. A lot of times people don’t consider that when things go up in the air, the wind tends to take them and we could end up with small spot fires, grass fires, things of that nature.”
Valdez said residents cannot own, possess or transport fireworks inside the city and warned that violations can be costly.
“Fireworks are illegal to own, possess and transport throughout the city,” he said. “There can be a hefty fine for that. You’re looking at about $2,000 per package.”
For those celebrating outside city limits where fireworks are allowed, Valdez said safety should always come first.
He recommends buying fireworks only from reputable dealers, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions, and keeping a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose nearby.
If a firework fails to ignite, Valdez said people should never try to relight it.
“You want to soak those, let those sit for a few hours before you dispose of them,” he said.
He also encouraged anyone handling fireworks to wear eye protection, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes while keeping children away from lighting fireworks.
“Sparklers actually burn at anywhere between 1,800 and 3,000 degrees,” Valdez said. “You have to make sure that you’re being safe when you’re using these items.”
Valdez also reflected on a new mural at Marker 37 Marina that celebrates America’s 250th birthday while recognizing the first responders who helped save the marina and nearby businesses during a large fire earlier this year.
“I was extremely proud and very thankful,” Valdez said. “It shows us that the community has our back.”
He said firefighters, law enforcement and emergency responders worked together that day and were grateful no injuries were reported.
“We were just happy that we were able to save everything that we could and that no injuries were reported,” he said.