Deputies are issuing a warning with the Fourth of July holiday approaching.
For many communities, it's the time of year when some people celebrate the festivities by firing gunshots into the air.
In years past, many people have been seriously wounded or killed by falling bullets on the 4th of July and New Year's Eve.
Those tragic deaths and serious injuries, which resulted from stray bullets, have motivated Sheriff Nienhuis to remind everyone that stray bullets can injure or kill innocent bystanders.
The Hernando County Sheriff's Office will be taking a zero tolerance stance on any and all illegal gun use and gun crime during the holiday.
"There are many ways to safely celebrate with family and friends. Discharging a firearm is NOT one of them," said Sheriff Al Nienhuis. "It's just too easy for people to get hurt. Leave the firearms at home, in a safe and secure location."
If anyone hears gunfire or sees anything suspicious, they are encouraged to call their local law enforcement agency.