By Commissioner Lesley Briones

Happy Fourth of July to you and your family! I am proud to be an American and am honored to have the opportunity to serve. 

Today, as we come together to celebrate our nation’s independence, my Precinct 4 team and I want to make sure you and your family are staying safe. 

Fireworks are an Independence Day staple we all love! Yet, it is best to leave these displays to the professionals, and as a reminder, it is illegal to set off fireworks within city limits throughout Texas. Instead, I invite you to watch your city- and community-sponsored fireworks displays; Houston, Tomball, Katy, and others will have fireworks celebrations.  

Make sure to keep your pets inside with their collars on during fireworks displays to prevent them from going missing.  

If you see anybody using fireworks illegally, please call the Houston Police Department's non-emergency number at 713-884-3131, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 713-221-6000, or your city’s local non-emergency number.  

If you see anyone participating in celebratory gunfire, please call 911. 

The Fourth of July is an opportunity to celebrate our amazing country and to have fun with your friends and family. While doing so, please be responsible. Do not drink and drive. I urge you to make sure you have a plan – whether that be a designated driver or a ride share. Keep our families safe on our roads. 

I hope you will join us in safely celebrating what it means to be an American and enjoying all the freedoms that come with it.