HARLINGEN – Anyone planning to light fireworks this Fourth of July holiday should keep in mind several things in order to stay safe.

People are advised to check with their local fire or police department to see if fireworks are allowed in city limits.  

According to Harlingen police, residents should make sure a responsible adult is supervising if fireworks are allowed in their area.

They also ask to use fireworks outdoors away from building and vehicles. In addition, people should always have a bucket of water and a water hose nearby.

The department said people should dispose of used fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can until the next day. Make sure the can is away from any building or combustible materials.

Any pet owners should make sure their pets are in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound of fireworks.

EXTRA:

Fireworks will not be banned in rural areas in Cameron County this year.

Cameron County Emergency Manager Coordinator Tom Hushen said neither the National Weather Service nor the Texas A&M Forest Service has designated a county a drought area.

However, he said people should still be careful where they light fireworks. He added resident should stay away from homes, vehicles or large fields where some of the grass may be dry.

Los Fresnos is the only city in Cameron County that allows fireworks in city limits.