Celebrate safely: State Fire Marshal warns of fireworks-related injuries and fires
Published 12:08 pm Monday, June 29, 2009
Only professional fireworks displays are permitted in the City of Redmond, yet fireworks are sold in many areas of unincorporated King County. With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, the State Fire Marshal urges citizens to be aware of the dangers and possible legal consequences associated with improper use of fireworks.
In 2008, there were 785 fireworks-related injuries and fires reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office by fire departments and hospitals. Of the 785 reports received, there were 518 fires and 267 injuries. The majority of these incidents occurred on July 4th. Most incidents were caused by males age 8-14. The incidents of greatest concern:
• Twenty commercial fires totaling $20,000 in loss, six of which were caused by illegal devices. Two were caused by legal devices and 12 were caused by an unknown type of firework.
• Thirty six school fires that totaled more than $8 million in losses were reported over a three-year period from 2006 through 2008.
• Thirty five fires and 106 injuries were caused by devices which are illegal to own or possess in Washington state.
• Twenty two sparkler bomb incidents included 12 fires/explosions and 10 injuries to faces and hands, including critical injuries transported to Harborview Medical Center.
PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
Supervision of kids 14 and under is critical in reducing emergency responses to firework incidents. Talk to your kids about fireworks and safety. Set family boundaries. Only adults should light fireworks. Store fireworks in a secure location out of the reach and sight of curious children. Personal fireworks require personal responsibility.
REMEMBER THE THREE B’S OF FIREWORK SAFETY
• Be prepared. Have water nearby and put pets indoors.
• Be safe. Only adults should light fireworks.
• Be responsible. Clean up firework debris.
ARE YOUR FIREWORKS LEGAL?
Fire service officials urge residents to work together to reduce loss by knowing the legal consequences and taking responsibility for fireworks-related incidents.
Fireworks sold on tribal lands are not subject to local and state laws and may not be legal in your community. Examples of fireworks legal to purchase and use on tribal lands, but not in Washington state, are bottle rockets, firecrackers and missiles. Remember, it’s your responsibility to know the laws in your community. Within the City of Redmond, only professional fireworks displays are allowed.
There may be legal consequences for any injuries or damages caused by the irresponsible use of fireworks.
• Making an improvised explosive device is a gross misdemeanor. A gross misdemeanor can bring a fine of up to $5,000 and one year in prison.
• If property was damaged, it could be considered a property crime which is malicious mischief.
• If used to blow something up, it could be considered a destructive device which is a felony.
• If someone was hurt by the device, a person could be charged with bodily harm and assault, depending on intent.
• Be sure the fireworks you purchase are legal to possess or discharge. Know the dates and times fireworks are allowed in your community.
• Talk with family members and guests about the fireworks laws in your area. Laws restricting or banning the use of fireworks in cities and counties are listed at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fireworks.
• Stay away from illegal explosive devices such as M80s and M100s. These items are not fireworks. They are illegal explosive devices. The damage they can cause can be devastating and life-altering.
For more information about fireworks safety, public fireworks displays and the fireworks laws for your area, check the Celebrate Safely Web site,
http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fireworks.htm.
