FIREWORKS SAFETY

Independence Day is a time to celebrate our freedom. With this freedom comes a shared responsibility to ensure the safe use of fireworks. Please be aware, our community will be enforcing the fireworks law to make this Independence Day safer for all.

Every year fireworks injure people and cause vegetation and structure fires. 

• Whenever you light a firework device, be aware of your surroundings. 

• Avoid areas with dry grass or dry vegetation. 

• Position fireworks so they will not land on or near a home or building. 

• Be sure spectators are at a safe distance.

Fireworks become legal to sell, purchase, use and discharge from 12:00 PM (noon) on June 28^th to 11:00 PM on July 5^th. 

Fireworks can not be sold or discharged between the hours of 11:00 PM and 9:00 AM, except on July 4^th from 9:00 AM through 12:00 AM (midnight) and except from 6:00 PM on December 31^st until 1:00 AM on January 1. 

To celebrate safely remember to: BE PREPARED, BE SAFE AND BE RESPONSIBLE.

• Be Prepared: Use only legal fireworks purchased at licensed stands.  Store them out of children’s reach. 

• Be Safe: Only adults should light fireworks.  Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.  Use eye protection, never relight a dud and always keep water handy. 

• Be Responsible: Soak used fireworks in water and clean up firework debris. 

People using fireworks must remember there may be legal consequences to injuries or fires caused by the irresponsible use of fireworks. Consequences range from being charged with malicious mischief to assault or a gross misdemeanor for possession of legal explosive devices such as fireworks that have been tampered with or altered. A gross misdemeanor can bring a fine of up to $5,000 and/or one year in prison. 

Devices which are illegal to possess in Washington State Include:

Fire Crackers/Chasers	Altered Fireworks	Cherry Bombs
Missiles and Rockets	M-80s, M-100s and larger	Pipe Bombs
Bottle Rockets	Homemade Devices	Tennis Balls, Bombs

Talk with your family and friends about the fireworks laws for your area.  Be sure to discharge all fireworks devices so there are no leftovers.  The fine for possession or discharge of fireworks outside legal dates is costly. 

The Grant County Fire Marshal’s Office, your local fire department and other emergency responders want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable celebration.  Let's all work together to keep our communities safe during this Independence Day holiday.

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