Texas Forest Service release Fourth of July fireworks advisory

Texas Forest Services officials want to remind residents to be cautious outdoors during Fourth of July celebrations and that a single spark can cause a wildfire.

Approximately 90 percent of wildfires in Texas are caused by humans.

Residents building campfires and using fireworks in approved areas should follow the following safety precautions to prevent future accidents:

Check for and obey burn bans and firework restrictions, determined by county government.

If outdoor burning is allowed, create a firebreak (a bare dirt perimeter) around a fire before lighting it.

Keep water close by in case a fire starts.

Read and follow label instructions on how to properly use fireworks.

Only use fireworks with adult supervision.

Don't use fireworks near areas of dead, dry grass and weeds. The highest potential for wildfires is in areas where there have been consecutive days of hot temperatures, drying out the vegetation.

Avoid using fireworks around buildings.

“We don’t want to discourage anyone from enjoying the holiday; we just want to remind people that Texas is still prone to wildfire danger,” said Texas Forest Service Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator Justice Jones. “We’re still seeing almost daily local activity in some parts of the state.”

For more information, contact Fire Prevention Specialist Jan Amen at 936-546-1004 or jamen@tfs.tamu.edu; or contact April Saginor, communications specialist, at 979-458-6619 or asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu.