With Fourth of July around the corner, concerns for firework safety and the proper places and ways to use fireworks are on many people's minds.
The fireworks ban that was recently placed in Randall County has been lifted because the Texas statute would not allow the Commissioners' Court to keep the ban in place due to the county not meeting the drought threshold, although it is recommended to refrain from the use of fireworks due to lingering severe drought conditions.
More:Fireworks or not, here is your Fourth of July fun guide around the Texas Panhandle
This year's drought conditions are very severe, with 174 counties under a burn ban.
Since January, Amarillo has picked up around 5.65 inches of precipitation. This time of year, Amarillo should normally have 9.08 inches, leaving Amarillo about 3.43 inches below normal, according to the National Weather Service Amarillo office.
"Looking at satellite images, we can get an idea of how green the area is. It gives us a good look at places that have received good moisture, versus places that are still very dry. Green grass isn't going to burn and create as many fires. It's that dried up grass where the places haven't gotten moisture that are concerning. We are really watching those areas. There may not be elevated or critical fire weather conditions over the weekend, (but) if folks are lighting up fireworks in those drier areas, it can spark a wildfire," said Melissa Beat, Lead Meteorologist at NWS Amarillo.
For residents in both Potter and Randall counties, fireworks can be used outside of the city limits on private property — with the owner's consent.
Fireworks can not be set off on county roads, private businesses and school parking lots, or in ditches, among other places.
An order has been put into place in Potter County prohibiting the sale of fireworks classified as skyrockets. This is any firework with sticks or fins. They are not to be sold, purchased, or detonated, or used in any way, according to officials.
Fireworks are illegal to own or shoot off within the Amarillo and Canyon city limits, even if you are on your own property. Illegal fireworks will be seized, and citations of up to $2,000 can be issued.
A zero-tolerance policy will be in place, with extra patrols by law enforcement to increase safety for the public. Those who set off fireworks are also responsible for any damages to others' properties and the cleanup.
Law enforcement will also be increasing patrols with traffic safety in mind, as more travelers are expected to hit the road with family celebrations taking place.
With the loud, explosive displays of fireworks, it can leave both family members and furry friends distressed. Here are some tips that the Alzheimer's Foundation of America put out.
1. Blow off the Fireworks - Keep older family members inside when fireworks are going to be used. These noises could trigger veterans, as these loud noises could be misinterpreted as gunshots or bombs. Watching TV could be a less intrusive way to watch a fireworks display.
2. Be Prepared - Even being inside, the sounds can still cause anxiety for these people. Explain to them what the loud noises are. Play soothing music and provide comfort items to the individual.
3. Keep Gatherings Small - Large crowds can be overwhelming and rowdy. A smaller crowd is less anxiety inducing.
4. Celebrate Creatively - Creating patriotic decorations, baking patriotic deserts, and listening to patriotic music. All of these things can lead to new family traditions.
Everyone wants to have fun and make memories with friends and loved ones, but fireworks are dangerous and need to be handled with care. The American Red Cross has important tips not only for firework safety, but lake and picnic safety as well.
In order to avoid starting a wildfire, don't let your car idle in tall dry glass. Catalytic converters are hot enough to start a fire. By keeping chains and other metals from scraping the ground while driving, this can also prevent these fires, because a fire can be started from these sparks.