Deadly wildfires raging across western states have prompted fire officials to ask patriotic Americans to pause before lighting fireworks this year.

Alameda County fire officials warn residents that Fourth of July party hosts could be held accountable for illegal fireworks - no matter who lit the fuse.

"This is a response to our community that is asking for enforcement of people violating the fireworks laws. Our residents have spoken quite loudly that they want it to stop at 11:45; that they don't w...