Fireworks blast on amid burn bans

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Drought conditions continue to worsen in Central Texas, and the latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows exceptional drought conditions, the worst catagory, spreading.

Little rain in recent weeks prompted many counties to enact a burn ban. However, the burn bans for many will not hamper firework displays this holiday weekend.

Travis County Fire Marshal Hershel Lee said the burn ban does not restrict consumer fireworks.

"We are in extremely dry conditions this year and it's just very important for people to remember," said Travis County Fire Marshal Hershel Lee. "If they choose to use consumer fireworks they need to do so in a very safe manner."

Yet, the department is urging people to view public displays instead of setting off their own fireworks since the conditions are so dry. A spark could ignite the extremely dry brush quickly.

Other recommendations include having an adult present and having sand or water nearby to put out a fire.

Fireworks-related injuries spike around the Fourth of July. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission , there were 7,000 injuries and seven deaths due to fireworks in 2008.

Even though they are considered safe since they do not explode, Lee said sparklers cause one-third of the injuries to children. They can reach 1,200 degrees at the tip.

John Sabra knows the dangers associated with fireworks. Even though it has become a tradition with his two boys, he takes measures to keep them safe.

"I light everything," said John Sabra, a father of two. "They don't get near it so they get close enough to watch and enjoy it but far enough away where it's not dangerous."