Hays County Sheriff asks citizens to exercise caution during New Years celebrations
Sierra Martin | Managing Editor
HAYS COUNTY— As the Hays County community prepares to celebrate the New Year, local authorities remind citizens to exercise caution when using fireworks and to keep their animals safely contained.
Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler says that fireworks can be dangerous if not used properly, and should only be used by sober adults with water on hand in the event of a fire.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pets can be very vulnerable during the New Years Holiday and are easily scared by fireworks. The AVMA recommends to leave pets at home when going to parties, firework displays, parades or other gatherings to prevent them from running away.
Before the New Years Holiday, local authorities ask that your pets are properly identified with a collar containing contact information and have them microchipped, if possible. To prevent animals from getting scared and running away, make sure fences, gates, and other enclosures are safe and not damaged.
The AVMA asks you to consider putting your pets in a safe, escape-proof room or crate during parties and fireworks. Keep horses and livestock in safely fenced areas and as far from the excitement and noise as possible.
Some tips AVMA provides is to keep your pets inside if you or your neighbors are setting off fireworks. Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, charcoal and kabob skewers away from curious pets. And if you’re hosting guests, place notes at exit doors and gates to remain vigilant and ask them to keep an eye on your pets.
With the increase in COVID-19 numbers and the emergence of the Omicron Variant, the Hays County Local Health Department reminds county residents to take precautions. These precautions should especially be followed if someone is traveling or hosting visitors from out of town. Some simple measures can help slow the spread of the virus, including frequent hand washing, social distancing and wearing a mask when indoors around large groups of people.
You may need a vaccination prior to travel to certain locales; see the list below for vaccine opportunities. Children age 5-11 are eligible to receive pediatric doses of the Pfizer vaccine.
Vaccine opportunities (hours may change due to holidays):
- M-F, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines @ Live Oak Community Clinic, 401 Broadway, San Marcos,
8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. - M-F, Walk-in Pfizer vaccine clinics @ CommuniCare, 2810 Dacy Ln., Kyle, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
- More locations can be found here: https://www.vaccines.gov
