JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – It’s hot and dry and because of drought conditions across Missouri. The state fire marshal is asking residents to avoid using fireworks this Fourth of July.

As drought conditions continue to worsen, the state’s top fire official is warning Missourians, anything that can cause a spark, like a cigarette or firework, have a greater change of starting a fire and because of this dry weather, it can spread twice as fast.

“We are alarmed at the conditions and if people aren’t wise and considerate of that, we could see some dramatic situations,” Missouri State Fire Marshal Tim Bean said.

The full article is available at ozarksfirst.com.