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Celebration should include safety

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By Kathy Thomson

Local emergency responders say any holiday cele-brations involving fireworks need to include safety and common sense, especially considering all of the grass fires that volunteers fought last weekend.

“Use lots of caution,” said Shackelford County Rural Fire Department chief Brad Henry. “With the current conditions, grass is burning well. The firefighters would like to be able to enjoy the fourth with their families, and not have to work battling fires because of someone else’s mistakes.”

Albany Volunteer Fire Department chief Kyle Tischler reminded anyone planning to set off fireworks to be safety conscious.

“I’m always excited about July 4, and I enjoy fireworks,” Tischler said. “I just ask folks to be safe about it and make sure to supervise children and use common sense. The grass is extremely tall and dry!” 

Firefighters warn that dry brush and vegetation, mixed with fireworks, can easily ignite, and there are rules and ordinances that must be followed by everyone setting off fireworks.

Shackelford County is under a burn ban at this time, and the use of fireworks is never allowed inside the city limits of either Albany or Moran. Use of fireworks on county roads is also prohibited.

Violators can be fined up to $500, and any fireworks they still have can be confiscated.

“Don’t set them off on public roads or public land,” said Henry. “Make sure that you have the landowner’s permission. Also make sure that you have a good water source available if you are going to set off fireworks.”

If someone accidentally starts a little fire, they can use the water to help extinguish it before it gets out of control, according to the rural fire chief.

“The land owners don’t want to have their places burned up,” said Tischler. “And with the extreme shortage of firefighters, we don’t have the personnel to be battling any unnecessary fires.”

Local fire departments would welcome more volunteers, according to the city VFD chief.

“If anyone would like to join any of the fire departments in the area, contact me or any firefighter,” said Tischler.

People who want to enjoy the booms and light shows without worrying about the possibility of starting a fire can attend one of the firework displays in the area.

Abilene will have a July 4th, 10:00 p.m. fireworks show as part of a two-day long “Freedom Festival.” Entry into the Expo Center will be $7 for adults and $3 for children. Various events on Wednesday, July 4, will include live bands, a car show, a bike show, vendors, games, and a children’s area.