With the hot Fourth of July weekend nearing, Douglas County fire officials are worried that the combination of dry weather and increased outdoor activity could spark brush fires.

“The last couple of weeks without rain has really impacted outdoor conditions,” Fire Chief Scott Spencer said Wednesday. “We’ve been fortunate that we haven’t had an increase in grass and woods fires, but we can’t let our guard down.”

He said the fire and drought indices are rising quickly with the past 14 days of 90 degree temperatures or higher and no rain. As of Thursday, the fire index was at 4 out of a possible 5, while the drought index was 550 of 800.

Spencer said outdoor grilling and use of fireworks during the holidays present special dangers during this dry season.

“Some people empty their charcoal ashes into ash buckets before the fire is completely out,” he said. “They think the fire is out if the coals aren’t red. The best method is to wet and stir the ashes until you’re sure there’s no more fire.”

Spencer said all fireworks, even sparklers, present a fire hazard when outdoor vegetation is so dry.

“It only takes a small spark, under the right conditions, to turn into a major fire,” he said. “It’s safer to enjoy the public fireworks displays.”

Spencer also warned of heat illness dangers from the hot sun as people go outside to enjoy parades and other outdoor activities.

“Remember to drink plenty of water or sports drinks, but not caffeinated or alcoholic beverages,” he said. “With temperatures in the 90s, dehydration is a real danger.”

Spencer said Fire/EMS crews will be all along the Douglasville Fourth of July parade route Saturday to assist with heat-related and other illnesses.

“If you think someone is having a heat-related problem, call 911 as quickly as possible,” he said.