Celebration should include safety

By Nolan Davis

As the Fourth of July quickly approaches, Shackelford County residents are encouraged to take necessary safety precautions when celebrating and using fireworks.

“People need to pay close attention when they’re using fireworks during the holiday,” said Shackelford County Rural Fire Department chief Brad Henry. “Just be very careful.”

While the county is not under a burn ban or any special fireworks restrictions, people should still be cautious as fireworks can easily cause fires in grassy and wooded areas.

Residents cannot use fireworks inside the city limits of Albany or Moran, and the use of fireworks on county roads is also prohibited.

Those who do not comply with these rules can be fined up to $500, and any remaining fireworks in their possession can be confiscated.

“People still cannot set them off on county roads,” said Henry, commenting on the fact that county commissioners did not impose any additional restrictions this year because of more than usual moisture.

Henry also wants citizens to have safety measures in place just in case an accident does occur when using fireworks.

“Make sure you have a water source nearby if you plan on using fireworks,” said Henry. “If a fire does start, the water can usually put it out quickly.”

There will once again be a fireworks show in Abilene for those who are not able to celebrate with their own fireworks.

The second annual “Freedom Festival” will be held on July 3 and July 4 in Abilene, and will include a parade, live bands, food trucks, a fireworks show, and more. The events on July 3 will take place in downtown Abilene, while events on July 4 will be held in the Taylor County Expo Center. 

Entry into the Expo Center for the event is $10 for adults, $5 for those ages of six to 15, and free for those under the age of five.