LaredoBuzz.Com

 Sustained hot and dry weather conditions has prompted Webb County Judge Danny Valdez to issue a county disaster declaration, banning the sale and use of “stick rockets” and “missiles with fins” by anyone other than a licensed pyrotechnics expert at a permitted event.  The order does not ban all fireworks, but targets only those aerial fireworks with the greatest potential to cause wildfires and damage to property.

 “My decision was made only after consulting with the Texas Forest Service, Governor’s Division of Emergency Management and the City of Laredo Fire Department and the County Attorney’s office.   My priority is to ensure that Webb County residents and visitors remain as safe as possible in these weather conditions.” stated Valdez.  “Residents are strongly encouraged to enjoy the events and activities through the July 4^th holiday, but to do it in a way that protects themselves, their families and their neighbors.”

 The disaster declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, July 2 and under state law, the ban remains in effect thereafter for 60 hours until just before noon on Sunday, July 5^th, unless extended by the governor’s office.  The governor’s office has been notified by telephone and letter today.

 The decision by Judge Valdez follows the Commissioners Court’s ban on outdoor burning issued on Tuesday, June 8^th, 2009.  The order applies only to the unincorporated areas of Webb County.