Fireworks safety encouraged

By Jillian Lucas

As Independence Day quickly approaches, community members are urged to use adequate safety precautions when celebrating and using fireworks.

“Our main concern and focus is personal safety,” said Albany Volunteer Fire Department chief Travis Gardenhire. “Everyone just needs to be very careful.”

Shackelford County is not currently under a burn ban or any other special restrictions and with the current amounts of rainfall, residents could easily mistake the surface level wet grass as a sign that fires would be more difficult to start.

“There is still plenty of dead grass that can quickly catch fire under the layer of nice green grass that is visibly seen right now,” Gardenhire said. “It is very important to remember that just because we have had a good amount of moisture, that doesn’t mean a fire can’t start just as easily.”

Gardenhire also suggested having a flat, visible surface when launching firework displays and having a water source nearby as an extra safety measure.

“Make sure that everything is moved away and you have a clear visual of what you are doing when you set them off,” he explained. “Also, be very mindful of where things are going to land once they fall from the sky, and have a water hose or something close by just in case.”

Shackelford County Commissioners remind citizens that fireworks are banned on all county roads and inside Albany and Moran city limits. Violators will face fines of up to $500 and will be held liable for any damages. 

There will be several nearby firework shows for those who are not wanting to celebrate with their own fireworks.

The Abilene Freedom Festival will have various activities, bands, vendors, and concessions on both July 3 and 4. 

Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce will also be hosting a fireworks display at Hubbard Creek Lake on Saturday, July 3.

This event includes free admission and will have food vendors from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. with the fireworks starting at 9:00 p.m.