WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – The Wilmington Fire Department shared firework safety tips Tuesday ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, warning residents about fire risks, injuries, and the legality of certain fireworks purchased out of state.

Deputy Fire Marshal Jon Mauney said residents using fireworks should be aware of their surroundings.

“Be a reasonable distance from infrastructures, vehicles, other people. Structures could also be fences,” Mauney said. “And also just be cognizant, be thinking about what sort of brush is around you.”

An ongoing drought and expected high temperatures this weekend increase the danger of using fireworks. Officials recommended attending professional firework shows instead.

Mauney also urged residents to consider those around them before lighting fireworks.

“You need to be very careful. Keep pets and small children away. Be cognizant of your neighbors,” he said. “You could have an issue where someone has PTSD, and that sort of sound is not going to be fun for them.”

Fire officials said pets should not be allowed to approach fireworks and children should not handle them.

The department also cautioned residents about purchasing fireworks outside of North Carolina.

“If you are going out of state to purchase it and it propels itself from the ground or it explodes, it is probably not legal in North Carolina,” Mauney said.

Fire officials said leaving fireworks to professionals will help prevent injuries and reduce the risk of fire.