BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Firefighters labored under extreme heat as they attacked dozens of blazes on the Fourth of July while dispatchers fielded nearly 3,000 calls, according to the Kern County Fire Department.

A total of 142 fires were handled by the department, with firefighters also responding to 313 other emergencies and assisting partner agencies, according to a department news release. Three fires were classified as “significant incidents” requiring 10 or more units.

Fire officials urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions as conditions remain ripe for wildfires, with hot, dry weather expected to continue at least through the weekend.

“The Independence Day holiday may be over, but Kern County remains under a red flag warning,” the department said in the release. “During this time, we have an increased risk of fire. Whether you are traveling, recreating, or working, think of ways to avoid starting fires.”

Emergency Communications Center staff took care of 2,945 calls — a 5% increase from last year’s Fourth of July. Dispatchers saw 911 calls soar 81% from the previous Thursday, according to the release.

The vast majority of reports of illegal fireworks came from Bakersfield. Of 4,126 reports, 86% were in the city, the release said.

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Fire investigators were kept busy as illegal fireworks rattled windows, erupted into shimmering lights and sent clouds of smoke drifting across neighborhoods.

All told, Kern County Fire investigators “made approximately 200 contacts for citations,” and opened eight investigations, according to the release.

The department recommended residents download the Genasys Protect app — which provides information from local emergency services departments — and identify their evacuation zone to receive emergency notifications in the event of disasters, including wildfires and earthquakes.

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