EVERETT, Wash. -- Firefighters and concerned citizens stood before the Snohomish County Council on Wednesday, asking council members to ban the sale and use of fireworks in unincorporated areas of the county. Many cities in Snohomish County already have bans on fireworks, but in unincorporated areas that's not the case.
Resident Nancy Mitrano said the ban of fireworks in nearby cities has increased the amount sold in her neighborhood, which is outside city limits.
"The night of the Fourth of July -- it is so loud that it's like a war zone," said Mitrano. "I literally have to go to a hotel with my dog to stay overnight because it is so bad in my neighborhood."
Mitrano was one of several people speaking out in support of a ban on Wednesday. One man objected to it.
The council said it will take a ban under consideration, but the issue has not been placed on an agenda for upcoming board meetings. Previous proposed bans of fireworks have not been met with favor in Snohomish County.
Firefighters from the county's largest fire district say every year they are forced to double their efforts responding to fires caused by fireworks. They want the county council to ban private use. They're OK with professional shows.
Mitrano said if fireworks were illegal, she may not have experienced a close call.
"This explosive went through my garage and ricocheted off the wall and landed on carpet," said Mitrano. "It could've set my whole house on fire."
Those against the proposed ban want to be able to continue their Independence Day traditions. If the council approves a ban, it would not be in place until one year after its adoption.
The next council meetings are scheduled for Monday and Wednesday.
