Precautions being taken for fireworks celebration

HOUSTON The threat of more wildfires in our area has most areas telling residents they can't shoot off their own fireworks this year. Right now, all of the counties around Houston have fireworks bans in place. The lone exception is Galveston County, but only for two more days. It's also expected to enact a fireworks ban starting Saturday to last through the holiday weekend.

A lot of people are expected at the Freedom Over Texas celebration and preparations are underway at Eleanor Tinsley Park.

Extreme drought conditions here in Texas forced cancellations of fireworks show across the state. Mayor Anisse Parker says the professional team launching the fireworks will fire them from a consolidated launch site to help ensure safety.

"We will work with organizations that want to have legally permitted fireworks displays, even this year where we are very concerned about the drought conditions and we believe they can be done safely," said Mayor Parker.

Mayor Parker says the ground where the fireworks will be launched will be soaked with water from the bayou.