Dry, hot weather conditions and upcoming Fourth of July celebrations are a dangerous combination when proper safety measures are not taken.
Already this year a large grass fire was started possibly by fireworks. The fire in Federal Way covered over 11,000 square feet and came close to several homes.
Last year the Washington Fire Marshal's office received reports of 432 firework-related injuries, with the majority of incidents occurring on July 4. Nearly 15 percent of these injuries were caused by devices illegal in Washington State.
State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy emphasizes that homemade fireworks are to be avoided at all times. In 2014, eight homemade sparkler bombs caused six multiple trauma injuries, and two fires.
It is also recommended to follow the three B's of firework safety—be prepared, be safe, and be responsible by keeping water nearby, and ensuring only responsible adults are lighting the fireworks.
Washington State's fireworks law allows the sale and discharge of fireworks at specific times on dates leading up to the Fourth of July and the New Year.
In addition to state laws regarding firework sales and discharge, individual counties and cities may hold additional restrictions as well. Major cities in Western Washington that hold additional firework restrictions are listed below:
Bellevue- Banned
Bellingham- Banned
Everett- Banned
Federal Way- Banned
Lynnwood- Restricted (Sale: July 1, noon to 10 p.m., July 2-4, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; discharge: July 4, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.)
Mount Vernon- Restricted (Sale: June 28, noon-11 p.m., June 29-July 4, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; discharge: July 4 noon-midnight)
Olympia- Banned
Port Angeles- Restricted (No sale or discharge on July 5)
Puyallup- Restricted (Sale: July 4, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., none on July 5; discharge: July 4, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.)
Renton- Banned
Seattle- Banned
Tacoma- Banned
Vancouver- Restricted (Sale: July 2-4, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; discharge: July 4, 9 a.m.-midnight)
For more information regarding firework safety and proper firework handling, including specific laws for your area, visit: http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fireworks.htm
