By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
This was nearly the the third consecutive year fireworks were banned in Hays because of the ongoing drought.
But thanks to abundant June rains, Hays city commissioners voted Monday night to lift the fireworks ban.
“If people use common sense and respect their neighbors, it should be a safe experience using fireworks,” said Hays Fire Department Chief Gary Brown.
The Hays Fire Department normally staffs two fire trucks every day.
For this Fourth of July holiday week, Brown said all fire trucks will be staffed, with one on stand-by at the site of the Wild West Festival Fireworks Spectacular, which starts at 10 p.m. Friday.
Fireworks can be sold and shot in Hays from July 2 to 4. Discharge of fireworks is allowed between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. each day. Fireworks remain prohibited in Ellis and rural parts of Ellis County.
Although lawns are green, all fireworks should be used with caution, Brown added, especially aerials, which can easily start a residential fire. He’s seen it happen:
Brown urged residents to call 911 promptly if a person is injured or a fire is started by fireworks.
“There’s no penalty for calling 911, and we don’t mind turning around and going home if we’re not needed,” he said. “We want to get there and deal with it while it’s still a controllable situation or before major damage occurs.”