A time for a safe celebration Published June 28, 2012 By David Isbell Laughlin Fire Department LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Fourth of July holiday is just around the corner and families are gearing up to celebrate the nation's birthday. The break is a chance to get outdoors, barbeque and watch a massive fireworks demonstration that lights up the night, but fireworks and West Texas weather don't mix well. The heat, dry wind and low humidity make carelessness with fireworks a real danger. The use of fireworks on base is unauthorized. The reason for this restriction is the increasing drought conditions experienced here, the City of Del Rio and Val Verde County. According to Val Verde County Fire Chief Jerry Rust, Val Verde County is in a permit only burn ban due to the current drought conditions. This burn ban requires a person to obtain a written permit from Chief Rust for all ground fires and open burning in Val Verde County. This also applies to the residents of Laughlin, which resides in Val Verde County. All campfires and cookouts should be restricted to above ground barbeque grills and patio fire pits. The restrictions are in place to help prevent the reoccurrence of a devastating wild fire that consumed over 175,000 acres last year. Chief Rust said, "I want everyone to have fun and take extra safety measures when using fireworks. Fireworks should only be used in an open gravel or dirt area way from grass and dense brush." The use of fireworks in the Del Rio city limits and parks owned by the National Park Service are also unauthorized. The fear of a mishap is even more alarming as the National Weather Service has forecast area temperatures to remain in the 100 degree range for several days. "There are safety measures around the home everyone can take during this time of celebration," said Craig Wilgus, Laughlin Fire Chief. We recommend the day of fun be one with adequate adult supervision. There is nothing worse on a festive day like the Fourth of July spent in the emergency room with a hurt child. As far as fireworks are concerned, the Chief says, "leave fireworks to the professionals, support the City of Del Rio's firework display this Fourth of July at the Amphitheater. The daylong events start at 10:30 a.m. with a parade and ends with fireworks at 10:00 p.m." Other safety tips for this Fourth of July include these from the U.S. Fire Administration: - Maintain a 36-inch clear zone around all grills to protect young children from burns. - Never add lighter fluid to burning charcoal. The flame could travel back up the stream of lighter fluid and ignite the container. - Propane grills should be tested for leaks prior to use with a light soapy water solution. Spray the solution on the hose and connections. Small air bubbles will reveal any leaks. If a leak is detected, turn off the grill and tighten the connections, if this does not stop the leak, have the grill serviced by a professional. - Drench charcoal ashes with water until they are cool to the touch before emptying into a trash can. - Keep barbeque grills at least 15 feet away from buildings and other combustible surfaces. - Never use gas or charcoal grills indoors or enclosed areas due to the release of carbon monoxide. Remember, the Fourth of July is a time of celebration and by following these safety tips, the day can end in celebration instead of devastation. For more information of Fire Safety, contact the Laughlin Fire Prevention Office at 830-298-5036 or go to the U.S. Fire Administration website.