Fireworks on sale in Texas, AFD reminds public fireworks are illegal in city limits

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - Firework stands and stores stock their shelves on December 20th to catch the eager firework poppers.

Rob Morales and his neighbor design an entire firework show for their West Austin neighborhood. They have at least 30 different elements in their program.

"For me it's blowing it up I love getting it staged and ready to rock and roll my neighbor Matt is more of the planner I'm more of the guy who likes to sit back and watch it go," "It's a sizeable investment that we budget and save for twice a year."

Selling or using fireworks in the city of Austin is illegal.

The Austin Fire Department made a point to address the public on social media stating: “According to the National Fire Protection Association an estimated 17,800 reported fires were started by fireworks and 8,700 fireworks-related injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms.”

Keeping safety in mind, minors under the age of 16 cannot buy fireworks without an adult.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends children use safety goggles and keep a safe distance. The Kopecky family stops by American Fireworks store near Bastrop every year.

"It’s become a tradition we were driving pass this place for years on our way to the farm and when we started having kids we started stopping in and pick a firework they really enjoy," Mike Kopecky said. 

The busiest days to shop for fireworks is December 30th and 31st.