Fireworks celebrations this Fourth of July will be few and far between in some areas of the state. The entire state is now under an extreme risk for fire danger according to the Arkansas Forestry Commission's website.
Maumelle is one city that is forced to adjust its plans. Fireworks usually fill the night skies there on Independence Day -- but not this year.
The manager at Deaton's Fireworks is afraid sales could be down as much as 20 percent. Personal fireworks are usually permitted in Maumelle on July 4th. But this year, hot and dry conditions have turned the entire city into a tinder box.
Maumelle Mayor Mike Watson says the situation is very dangerous. Police and fire departments will send increased manpower onto the streets this Independence Day to make sure people are complying with the law. Citations will be given to anyone caught shooting fireworks.
"It's not only the fear of getting a citation from police or fire," Watson says. "It's the concern that you could burn your neighbor's house down."
Selling fireworks is still permitted in Maumelle. Fireworks vendors tell KATV they are cutting prices this year to get rid of inventory.
