Fireworks sales boom in southeastern NM

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) - Independence Day is just two weeks away, and residents of southeastern New Mexico are finding it easier to stock up on fireworks after recent rains quelled the normally stringent fire restrictions.

Vendors said with no fire restrictions in place, it should be a great year for business.

Even with the restrictions lifted, fire officials said they're keeping an eye on the weather.

The possibilities seem endless when you step under Leticia Garza's Fireworks Tent.

Garza's business has only been open a few days and business is booming—literally. She said that it's partly because the area is free of fire restrictions.

"It does help business here, in regards to, so people can go ahead and enjoy a nice Fourth of July," Garza said.

Garza said every dollar counts, since temporary firework tents are only open one month a year.

Chaves County Fire Services Administrator Georgianna Hunt said rain and moisture helped to ease the restrictions, but she warns that rules can change just quickly as the weather does.

Hunt said a common sense key is to use fireworks in an open area, away from grass or brush.

"It just takes a little bitty spark to create a grass fire and someone's home is threatened, someone's property is threatened, someone life is threatened," Hunt said.

All and all Garza said the change is a good deal for everyone.

"We are allowed to sell it and they are able to use it, for the Fourth of July what better way to settle it with some fire works," Garza said.

Even though most areas in southeastern New Mexico don't have fire restrictions, some fireworks are illegal in certain areas.

Fire officials said it is best to check with your local fire department and police because the use of certain fireworks can get you into trouble.