TAMPA, Fla. — State leaders are reminding residents to use caution when celebrating the Fourth of July next week.

Florida agriculture commissioner Wilton Simpson said recent rains have helped fight drought conditions, but still urged anyone using fireworks to exercise caution.

BURN BANS: PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO | POLK | CITRUS | MANATEE | SARASOTA

According to Simpson, nearly 2,500 wildfires have sparked across Florida since the beginning of the year.

He said it is critical that people follow local guidelines, especially when setting off fireworks.

Hillsborough County has an active emergency burn ban in place due to ongoing drought conditions and severe wildfire risks. Pinellas County already prohibits burning yard debris, construction debris, and household trash year-round.

Citrus, Hernando, Pasco and Polk counties are in the clear for now, with no bans.

However, Manatee County just reinstated its burn ban, and Sarasota also has one in place.

Officials said all previously permitted firework displays will still go on as planned. Flares discharged over the gulf will also be allowed, but personal fireworks on land will not.

“The past six months have been one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory,” Simpson said. “And though recent rains have helped rein in drought conditions, the risk of wildfire still exists in Florida and needs to be taken seriously.”