BY JERRIE WHITELEY

HERALD DEMOCRAT

A blistering hot Texas sun beat down on the roof of a wood building on Friday as Blake Kabariti boxed up one his biggest sales at his first ever job.

The 16-year-old is one of hundreds of people across the state who will spend the next few weeks selling fireworks in the Lone Star State and beyond.

"It has been fun," he said as he watched a customer walk away with more than $40 worth of the small explosives.

Most people so far, Kabariti said, have each spent under $10 but he is looking forward to being able to sell some of the bigger packages.

If local buyers keep pace with those around the country, the teen could get his wish.

The National Retail Federation's 2009 Independence Day survey says that more people expect to celebrate the holiday this year than last.

"With the holiday falling on a Saturday, many Americans are planning a memorable celebration: 62.6 percent--or 144 million people -- will host or attend a cookout, barbecue or picnic, compared to 61.2 percent (139 million people) in 2008," said a NRF press release.

The survey also found that more people plan to attend community celebrations this year.

"Americans are ready to kick-start summer and celebrate Independence Day," said Tracy Mullin, NRF president. "Retailers will be stocked with supplies for every celebration, from large family cookouts to trips to the beach."

Eric Rau of Whitewright said his family plans to celebrate a little bit more than usual. He purchased the big box of fireworks from Kabariti at the stand just off of State Highway 11 and said he spent what he thought he could afford this year though the economy wasn't something he really considered. He said the tradition was the driving factor for him.

Grayson County Assistant District Attorney Van Price said people should celebrate, but they should also be careful.

Even though the county did not outlaw fireworks in the unicorporated area, people will still be civilly responsible for any damages their celebration might cause.

"So they want to use caution and be prepared," Price said. The county would have had to put a ban in place by June 15 to be able to strict the type of fireworks that can be sold in the county.

Price said the county would have had to be in a drought situation for county leaders to strict the sale of the items.

"We are not currently in a drought so we just have to count on people to be responsible," Price said.

The American Pyrotechnical Association said people should do the following when using consumer fireworks.

• Always read and follow the directions carefully.
• Only ignite fireworks outside in a well-cleared area.
• Have a responsible adult supervise all fireworks activities.
• Light fireworks one item at a time.
• Have a bucket of water available to dispose of used fireworks.