HARLINGEN -- Fireworks vendors said sales are up this year, and that worries fire officials who feel there could be an increase in fireworks-related incidents this New Year’s celebration.
One of these vendors, Eric Sanchez of Harlingen, told Action 4 News he is expecting to make some $10,000 dollars in just ten days with the two fireworks stands his family owns.
That number, he said, is up from last year, but the busy days for them are still ahead.
"New Year’s Eve will be the busiest day for us,” he said. “It'll be packed until the night."
But with more people buying more fireworks, fire departments across the Valley fear this could lead to more accidents in the next few days.
"I know New Year's is a time when we use fireworks and the number one thing we want is for people to be safe," Lt. Chris Gracia said.
He is a fire prevention officer with the Brownsville Fire Department, and said people should be aware that using fireworks inside city limits is illegal for most valley cities.
"Always try to have some type of extinguishing agent handy, an extinguisher, a water hose, even a bucket of water,” he suggested. “Something useful for putting out the fireworks in case something were to happen."
He added that the best way to dispose of fireworks is by soaking them in water for 20 minutes before throwing it away.
"When you are using fireworks, always keep in mind alcohol and fireworks don’t mix," he went on to say.
Gracia also told Action 4 News young children should not handle any devices that ignite and that it is very important for them people to follow these tips.
"Hopefully we won’t be too busy, but we know that the reality is we will be busy," he said.
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