BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- The rockets red glare will begin lighting up driveways and neighborhoods beginning tonight as people flock to fireworks stands.

But with thousands of dollars in merchandise packed into dozens of tiny wooden shacks, many more people will spend this holiday camping out in parking lots to protect them.

A campout in the middle of a shopping plaza parking lot or on the corner of an intersection may seem like an odd location, but they're there.

It's not for fun, it's for security.

Many fireworks stands throughout the county are not only equipped with fireworks, but also a camper, port a potty, and even spot lights.

Vendors and security guards have been camping out every night to make sure no one breaks into their stand to get a bang without paying their buck. After all, many of these stands carry more than a thousand dollars worth of merchandise.

Law enforcement says even though fireworks stands are rare, vendors should still take that extra precaution to keep a watchful eye.

Sheriff's Sgt. Jim Craig says, "Look at the person. Say hi to them. Criminals don't like to be identified. They don't want people to recognize them. Just looking at them and talking to them. If they're not doing anything legitimate, they're going to take off."

If you notice anything suspicious or someone loitering near a fireworks stand please call law enforcement.