Families have been purchasing fireworks for home celebrations marking America's 250th birthday, but many say they are taking extra caution because of the dry conditions.
"We got some sparklers. Well, smoke grenades," said Thomas Landreth of Cary.
Parts of the Triangle are under extreme and exceptional drought conditions heading into the holiday weekend, creating concerns for fire officials who expect an increase in fire calls related to fireworks.
"The drought is very severe. We are concerned about it, but we know that we'll have an increase in fires just because of the use of fireworks," said Brian Taylor of the N.C. State Fire Marshal's Office. "And we know people want to celebrate. We just ask them to celebrate responsibly."
Officials said fireworks can pose additional dangers when used improperly.
"A lot of times they use containers that are not approved, and they fall over and shoot into a crowd or shoot into a combustible construction that can cause a fire," Taylor said.
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Residents told ABC11 they are taking steps to reduce fire risks during their celebrations.
"We make sure we do it far away from any grass or anything like that," said Matthew Lee of Raleigh.
Lee said his family also keeps fire-safety supplies nearby.
"Me and my family got, like, a bucket of water we keep just in case for anything. The fireworks are pretty small most of the time, but just in case," he said.
Landreth also encouraged caution.
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"Be careful using an outside open area with water near you. Keep your phone and call 911 if you need," he said.
As of Tuesday, no statewide burn ban was in effect. The N.C. Forest Service would be responsible for implementing one, though officials said conditions could change if the heat wave and drought worsen.
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