Fireworks Safety Plan

Be Prepared, Be Safe, and Be Responsible

Always be prepared, take every safety precaution and be respectful of your neighbors and surroundings.  Fireworks Do’s and Don’ts!

Be Prepared before lighting any firework: 

• Know the fireworks law in your area.
• Purchase only legal fireworks, available at Washington State licensed stands.  How to ID illegal fireworks.
• Ensure the safety of pets; the loud sounds make them nervous. More pets become lost on this day than any other when panicked—going through open windows, breaking tethers, and leaping fences.
• Have a bucket of water nearby in which to place all used fireworks.
• Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
• Clear a level area away from things that can burn.
• Teach your children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothes catch on fire.

Be Safe when fireworks are being lit:

• Use only outdoors on a level, flat, hard surface.
• Only adults should light fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
• Keep spectators at a safe distance (recommend 20 feet from fireworks).
• Keep away from anything that can burn.
• Follow the directions on the label carefully.
• Be considerate of your neighbors, family pets, and your environment.
• Follow the time restrictions for discharge.

Be Responsible after the fireworks are done:

• Clean up all debris when finished.
• Duds can be dangerous; if a fireworks item does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least fifteen minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
• Make sure unused fireworks, matches, and lighters are out of sight and reach of children.
• Before throwing away any used fireworks, make sure they are cold. Soaking in a bucket of water for at least 10 minutes before placing the fireworks in a plastic garbage bag will ensure they won’t catch anything on fire.

Reporting Emergencies or Illegal Fireworks

Please help our emergency dispatchers and those needing emergency services by only calling 9-1-1 regarding fireworks if it is an emergency - a fire, an injury, or lives are in danger.  Should you wish to report the illegal use of fireworks, call 3-1-1.