Harford County emergency officials are warning residents to skip backyard fireworks this weekend, saying extreme heat has dried out vegetation and lowered the water levels that firefighters depend on.

What’s Happening: The Harford County Department of Emergency Services issued the warning Friday. Weeks of sustained extreme heat have dried out grass, trees and other plants, making it easier for a fire to spread if sparked by fireworks.

What’s Important: In areas without municipal water lines, firefighters rely on streams and ponds to fight fires. Those water sources are currently below normal levels because of the heat, reducing the water supply available when it is needed most.

How This Affects Real People: Home fireworks can veer off course after launch. If one lands in dry vegetation in a rural area without a nearby water line, firefighters may not have enough water on hand to stop a fire quickly.

By the Numbers: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 14,700 people were injured by fireworks in 2024.

Catch Up Quick: Professional fireworks shows are scheduled in Aberdeen and Bel Air on July 4 and in Havre de Grace on July 5. Fire crews are on standby at professional shows. They are not stationed at backyard displays.

B.T. Clark

About the Author

B.T. Clark

B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and Publisher of The Harford County Sun and The Free State Press. He brings 25 years of experience in journalism, including 15 years as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta, eight years as Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc., and seven years as Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He and his family recently relocated to Maryland. Clark is also the author of Principles Are Like Pants, You Ought to Have Some.

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