Burning clock to greet 2009

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The countdown to New Year's Eve is underway in Austin. First Night Austin celebrations will take place from Second Street all the way to Auditorium Shores. More than 800 artists and performers will take part in the festivities. The starts at 3 p.m. on New Year's Eve and lasts until midnight.

At 8 p.m., a 34-foot tall wooden clock tower will be lit on fire to welcome the new year with a literal blast.

Travis County firefighters,however, have a warning for those who want to create their own, personal explosive party. A burn ban is in effect for much of Central Texas, which is under an "exceptional" drought, which falls the worst drought category possible.

Although it is illegal to light fireworks in the City of Austin, people can set them off in unincorporated areas of the county. Rockets with sticks and missiles with fins are restricted fireworks in Travis County.

Here are some firework safety tips for New Year's Eve:

1. Read and follow instructions
2. Use only with adult supervision
3. Always ignite outdoors
4. Do not make homemade fireworks
5. Never ignite in glass or metal containers
6. Never throw fireworks at another person
7. Light one at a time
8. Buy only from established retail locations
9. Have water handy
10. Never give to small children
11. Dispose of fireworks properly