TEXAS (KAUZ) – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas A&M Forest Service are both urging the public to be safe when celebrating the Fourth of July this weekend.
DPS’ Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) will be running during this holiday from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6. DPS said Operation CARE is a campaign in which Texas Highway Patrol Troopers patrol for drivers who are speeding, intoxicated, not complying with Texas’ Move Over, Slow Down law, or violating other laws.
DPS shared the following tips to stay safe during the holiday:
- Don’t drink and drive.
- Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles, and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated.
- Buckle up, everyone in the vehicle.
- Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas, or construction zones.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
- On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only.
- Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them.
- If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact.
- Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained, and always ensure your cargo is secure.
- Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
- Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling.
With fireworks getting set and people planning to spend additional time outdoors, the Texas A&M Forest Service said it’s important to go into this holiday aware of wildfire dangers.
A&M Forest Service said nearly 90 percent of wildfires in Texas are human-caused, and Independence Day consistently ranks among the top days for wildfire starts.
While the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public show hosted by professionals, the A&M Forest Service shared the following tips to be safe while setting off fireworks:
- Always check with local government officials for any burn bans or other restrictions. For example, it’s illegal to set off fireworks in the City of Wichita Falls.
- Read and follow all warnings and instruction labels on fireworks.
- Use fireworks only under close adult supervision and in safe areas away from structures, dry grass and brush.
- Keep a hose, bucket of water and wet towels nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.
- Dispose of used fireworks in a bucket of water.
- Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
More information on DPS’ Operation CARE can be found here and additional information from the Texas A&M Forest Service can be read here.
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