As Independence Day nears and heat and dry conditions continue to dry the vegetation out, be careful in any use of fireworks.
Great care should always be taken when using fireworks, but California Fire Chief Allen Smith says said the extremely dry conditions have made shooting off of fireworks even more risky this year.
A city ordinance already prohibits shooting fireworks in the city limits. Because of the extra fire hazard caused by dry conditions, the California Police Department is stepping up enforcement of the ordinance.
"Be extra cautious in dry weather," Smith said. "An alternative is the city fireworks display on July 4. Come out and watch the fireworks safely."