Lubbock County fireworks stands open for business on Sunday

LUBBOCK COUNTY, TX (KCBD) - Fireworks stand owners and workers are getting ready to open up shop on June 24 for their version of Christmas, the Fourth of July.

Until just a few days ago, these business owners didn't know if they would be allowed to sell fireworks, since drought conditions have Lubbock County under a burn ban.

"It is a West Texas staple to have fireworks as long as everything is good to go weather wise," Owner of Wholesale Fireworks Sonni Menaldi said. "It is always a huge deal."

Lubbock County is in a drought this year, so the question of whether or not fireworks should be sold was considered by county officials, something not considered since 2011.

After much back and forth from Lubbock County Commissioners and the Lubbock County Office of Emergency Management, a decision was reached.

"The drought index has to be 575 or greater. That law also says for the Fourth of July, the commissioners court has to make that decision by June 15 of each year for the fireworks selling season," Emergency Management Coordinator Clinton Thetford said.

Just two days ago, the County's drought index was just at 500, which is not enough to ban fireworks, but the decision could be reversed if the weather gets worsens by issuing a Disaster Declaration.

"Disaster Declaration is when the County Judge can issue based on his perception of the threat being greater enough of life and property if the judge makes that decision that is only good for 60 hours," Thetford said.

It's important to remember basic firework safety if you head out to one of these stands June 24. Always supervise your kids, stay away from tall grass, and never light fireworks on the road or in the Lubbock city limits. For more tips, click here and here.

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