Hays County officials recommend celebrating new year safely

Amid an increase in COVID-19 cases, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra is urging residents to take caution while celebrating New Year’s Eve, while Sheriff Gary Cutler is asking residents to practice fireworks safety. 

Becerra said the county isn’t implementing any restrictions or curfews Thursday evening but are strongly recommending everyone limit their exposure to people outside their household, adding that taking these measures can help slow the spread of the coronavirus. 

“Now is not the time to relax and be complacent,” Becerra said. “By being proactive we can mitigate the challenges of limited hospital staff and bed availability in the county. We don’t want to reach the capacity thresholds that trigger closures and shutdowns."

Becerra said he, along with the Hays County Local Health Department, support the recommendations of wearing masks, practicing social distancing and regular hand washing as effective methods to slow the spread of the virus.

“By avoiding gatherings and having smaller New Year’s celebrations at home, we can avoid a post-holiday increase of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations,” Becerra said. “Mask up so we don’t have to shut down.”

Cutler reminds Hays County residents to exercise caution when using fireworks. Fireworks can be dangerous if not used properly. Fireworks should only be used by sober adults, and water should be on hand in the event of a fire, Cutler said.

The Hays County Sheriff’s Office also provides the following tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association to protect pets during the holiday:

Leave your pets at home when you go to parties, fireworks displays, parades, and other gatherings. Loud fireworks, unfamiliar places, and crowds can all be very frightening to pets, and there’s a great risk of pets becoming spooked and running away.

Make sure your pets are properly identified with a collar containing contact information, and if possible, have them microchipped.

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.

Make sure fences, gates, and other enclosures are safe and not damaged.
If you’re hosting guests, ask them to help keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don’t escape. Placing notes on exit doors and gates can help both you and your guests remain vigilant.

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.

“This year is especially challenging as we maintain safe social distancing and the use of face coverings when necessary,” Cutler said, adding that he’s wishing “everyone a very safe, healthy, and happy New Year.”