JULY 4- If You Shoot Them, Use Fireworks Safely!

Numerous fire officials are urging all of us not to shoot fireworks this year due to the extremely dry conditions. However, many of us will want to shoot fireworks.

Remember, in unincorporated Snohomish County, you can only shoot fireworks between 9am and 11:59pm on July 4. Cities within Snohomish County set their own regulations regarding fireworks. The following handout lists the rules for most cities in the county:

http://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7349

The Fire Marshal’s Office recommends that you take the following measures to use fireworks safely:

• in case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
• have a bucket of water for emergencies and to douse used fireworks.
• never build or experiment with homemade fireworks.
• never let children handle or light fireworks; even sparklers can be dangerous.
• never ignite fireworks while holding them; light one at a time and move away quickly.
• make sure you give yourself enough room in a safe location – away from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials.
• never light fireworks inside a structure.
• watch what you wear; loose clothing can catch fire while handling fireworks.
• never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned; soak them in water, then throw them away.
• never ignite fireworks while you are under the influence of alcohol and/or mind-altering drugs.
• never aim fireworks at vehicles, homes, or people.

This video is making the rounds. Take a look and see how fast dry grass can catch fire if a firework lands on it.

KIRO TV:

http://www.kirotv.com/news/news/tinder-dry-washington-new-video-demonstrates-firew/nmqf8/

 

For other resources about fireworks, go to,

National Council on Fireworks Safety:

 http://www.fireworkssafety.org/

Snohomish County Fire Marshal:

http://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/1164/Fireworks

 

Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office:

http://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/290/Fireworks