Posted Sunday, July 1, 2012 --- 7:41 p.m.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The state Department of Natural Resources is warning people to keep fireworks out of state parks and forests.

Wisconsin State Parks Program Chief Ranger Jason Fritz says fireworks are illegal in the parks and forests and rangers will strictly enforce the ban. Citations can run up to $200 and parents can be held liable for any fires their children start with fireworks.

Fritz says sparklers are allowed in parks and forests, but rangers would rather not see them because they're fire hazards.

The DNR has been monitoring dry conditions across southern Wisconsin. The agency has imposed burning restrictions in 11 counties. Barring rain ahead of the July 4th holiday, wildfire risk in southern Wisconsin is expected to remain high.

Copyright 2012. The Associated Press.