LUFKIN, TX (KTRE) -
Business is booming for fireworks
stands across East Texas as many prepare to celebrate the last day of 2012.
But Texas A&M Forest Service
officials say its important to take precautions to ring in the new year safely.
"We've had a lot of rain lately
and its good timing so we can go out and enjoy fireworks but I'd still be
careful because we still have a drought going on," said Jan Amen, TX
A&M Forest Service.
Officials say the recent weather can
give many a false sense of security and its important to shoot fireworks in a
clear area.
"We have a lot of leaves on the ground,
they're not necessarily dry but they could be in pile that's dry," said
Amen.
Forest Service Prevention Officer Jan Amen
says accidents are avoidable when you know what you're doing.
"Even though you've done these
fireworks over and over again it's a good idea to read the instructions,"
said Amen.
Kevin Black has been selling fireworks for six
years and say even something as simple as sparklers can be potentially
dangerous so be prepared for anything.
"Just be sure you always have a
bucket of water handy to put fireworks out in," said Black.
Structures can be put at risk during firework
season and black suggests staying away from any buildings.
"High winds or anything try not to do a
lot of aerial stuff and just be safe," said Black.
Safety officials say taking these precautions
will keep your celebrations just as bright and a little safer. It's also important
to check for burn bans and firework restrictions, fireworks are banned inside both
Lufkin and Nacogdoches city limits.
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