Florida may ban July 4th fireworks as drought fuels wildfire fears

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WINK) — Floridians could be advised to celebrate the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary without fireworks if heavy, ground-soaking rains don't soon arrive.

Members of the state Cabinet warned Tuesday they won't hold back on taking legal action against those responsible for blazes that get out of control and affect residential areas. The peak of an already highly active year for wildfires has yet to arrive.

Attorney General James Uthmeier said his office will hold people accountable if they start bonfires in drought conditions that get out of hand. He emphasized the seriousness of burn bans currently affecting much of the state.

"Have fun. Have a good time. Enjoy some beers over the holidays this summer. But if you're in one of these burn ban counties—which right now is about two-thirds, and it does change pretty quickly—please take this seriously," Uthmeier said.

Since the start of the year, 2,101 wildfires have been reported on state and federal lands in Florida, consuming more than 136,000 acres, according to the state Forest Service. Burn bans, with prohibitions on burning yard debris, were in place in 15 counties on Tuesday.

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The warnings come as Florida experiences record droughts and dry climate conditions. Uthmeier acknowledged that accidents can happen quickly in these conditions, with fires getting out of hand before endangering communities.

Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson urged residents to take preventive measures. He stressed the importance of creating defensible spaces around homes by clearing brush, roofs and gutters.

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia described Florida's current wildfire season as active and destructive. He noted that these fires are unpredictable and can ignite easily.

The state continues to monitor conditions closely as officials balance public safety with traditional celebrations.