Sizzling Fourth: How Houston-area counties are keeping Independence Day safe in the heat

Very hot weather is in store for this year’s Independence Day. Even though tomorrow’s warmth levels will remain below heat-advisory criteria, temperatures will still reach the triple digits. Meaning, if you have plans to be outdoors for the 4th of July, it’ll be important to stay mindful of your hydration, sun exposure, and your body’s reaction to the heat-- for your safety and those you love.

But don’t worry—you’re not alone in this. Houston and the surrounding counties have plans in place to keep everyone safe during the sizzling holiday weekend. Keep reading to find out how your county is preparing.

Houston and Harris County

The Houston Fire Department will be onsite at the City of Houston’s official 4th of July event, Freedom Over Texas. HFD said they will have numerous roaming and stationary resources available at the event, including “medical and fire carts, bike teams, and special event medic units” to “provide emergency medical services to attendees as needed.” If someone requires hospital transport, special event medics will have units ready to assist.

HFD is also sharing safety tips on their social media channels, reminding everyone how to celebrate safely in the heat. HFD recommends to, “hydrate before you feel thirsty, take frequent shade breaks, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion”.

Southside Counties

Thanks to Brazoria County Parks and Recreation, you’ll have a clean beach to enjoy. The Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office said they’ve been “hard at work removing any driftwood and beach debris” that could make it difficult for crews to get through if an emergency occurs.

The Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office said they will have “additional Deputies assigned specifically to the beach area, along with medical personnel on standby” in the case an emergency situation arises. Since more families are taking their pets to the beach, a Animal Welfare Officer will available to help with any animal-related concerns.

The Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind beachgoers that there are rules you must follow if you plan to celebrate at one of their beaches:

• Dune-side parking only
• No double parking
• One-way driving
• No driving on dunes
• 15 mph speed limit

With the beaches covered, firework safety is next on the checklist. The City of Galveston said their Fire Marshall will be focused on overseeing and managing all of the professional fireworks happening in the area.

Westside Counties

Fort Bend County is also keeping a close eye on fireworks. Fort Bend’s Fire Marshall said they’ve been overseeing the permitting of all the shows happening tomorrow. Fort Bend County Fire Marshall said Fire Inspectors will be present at each display in their jurisdiction. I reached out to Waller County to learn more about their preparedness plans but have not heard from them yet.

Eastside Counties

If you’re celebrating in Chambers County, their Emergency Management team said they will be maintaining “situational awareness” throughout the day and will “respond as needed throughout the weekend.” With all of Chambers County’s parks being open with fully operating restrooms and utilities, no specific safety measures are needed at this time. Just remember to call 9-1-1 if you need help.

If you’re celebrating in Liberty County, city officials got your back there too. The Sheriff’s Office said they’ll have “EMS services on site along with fire department personnel” in case anything happens. The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office said they’re confident traffic control, emergency services, and security “are in place”.

Northside County

I’ve reached out to Montgomery County’s Fire Marshall but have not heard back yet.