CYPRESS, TEXAS — The Cy-Fair Fire Department launched a safety bucket program on June 24, 2026, distributing 3,600 free safety buckets to residents to prevent fires caused by improper disposal of spent fireworks. The program runs through July 3.

The initiative responds to an unusually high number of fireworks-related fires during the 2025-2026 New Year's holiday. "Over the years, our department has responded to numerous structure fires that were a result of improper fireworks disposal, and in nearly every case, the resident simply didn't know," Fire Chief Amy Ramon said.

Safety buckets are available at the department administration building at 10710 Telge Road, Houston, as well as select H-E-B grocery stores in the Cypress area and participating fireworks retailers. Locations include H-E-B stores at 9722 Fry Road, 24224 Northwest Freeway, 14100 Spring Cypress Rd, 28550 Us-290, and 20017 Bridgeland Creek Pkwy. TOP DOG Fireworks locations at 19930 FM 529 in Cypress and 20432 Northwest Fwy. in Houston also participate.

The department advises residents to fill the safety bucket with water before using fireworks. After use, all spent fireworks, including duds, should be placed directly into the water-filled bucket. "Even fireworks that appear extinguished can smolder undetected for hours, turning trash cans, garages, and other enclosed spaces into ignition points," Ramon said.

Residents should soak fireworks overnight and keep the bucket away from the home and out of enclosed spaces until contents are fully cooled. Excess water should be drained, and wet fireworks placed in a resealable plastic bag, tied inside two plastic grocery bags, or double-wrapped in plastic wrap. These prepared fireworks should be disposed of in the trash, not in recycling or yard waste. "Firework residue is toxic and needs to be swept up," Ramon said. "Keep children and pets well away from it."