East Texas firework stands open ahead of Fourth of July

WHITEHOUSE, Texas ( KETK ) — With July 4 just around the corner, stands like Fireworks Crossing are popping up across East Texas.

“Well, the weather’s going to help us out a whole lot, and there’s a lot of people that are apparently going to be out and traveling, and we’re hoping more people come to town than go out of town,” Gus, owner of Fireworks Crossing, said.

Gus has been in the business since 1993 and this season is looking better than most. He believes no burn bans in place yet helps business.

“We’re getting more trickle now than we have the last couple of July seasons in the first few days, so that’s encouraging,” Gus said.

As stands are opening for the Fourth of July, Gus reminded people about fireworks safety, especially with items such as sparklers.

“A sparkler to the eye is where almost all eye injuries ten and under occur,” Gus said.

Gus advises parents to watch their children and teach them to keep their distance from others when using sparklers. When it comes to lighting the fuse, your safety should be top of mind.

“Light the stuff and get away from it, don’t have any fireworks in your pocket, do not keep fireworks in a car they can get hot enough, ignition could occur,” Gus said.

An accident can happen quickly no matter how much experience you have.

“I’ve got a ringing of the ears and I was teaching and preaching firework safety and I still had a little mishap, and now my ears ring,” Gus said.

Gus said people should have water nearby, a fire extinguisher handy and never try to relight a firework, adding you can have fun but do it safely.

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