How To Have A Safe Fourth Of July Celebration
Fourth of July is coming up, and you can’t celebrate America’s freedoms without some fireworks. But what are our freedoms when it comes to lighting fireworks in King County? Chris Ricketts is the King County Fire Marshal. He shares the rules and regulations for shooting off fireworks on the upcoming holiday.
Where can you shoot off fireworks in King County?
You can shoot them outside city limits in more rural areas like Vashon, but no public property – just private property.
Is there a curfew for lighting off fireworks in these areas?
They are only allowed on the Fourth of July from 9:00 a.m. to midnight.
What about something harmless like sparklers or cones?
They're not a big deal; large aerials are what we are talking about.
Where can you buy fireworks? What about fireworks sold on Indian reservations?
There are 30 fireworks stands in unincorporated King County that sell approved fireworks. Fireworks sold on reservation property are not approved for use outside reservations.
Do you have advice for staying safe around fireworks?
Go see a display! If you do shoot them off, stay away from dried grass, have adult supervision, and be close to water.
The Spokesman-Review has more information about fireworks regulations in Washington. If you don’t want to buy your own there are plenty of public displays throughout the county and state.
- Seattle: Gasworks Park, 10:00 p.m.
- Everett: Legion Park and Grand Avenue Park, 10:20 p.m.
- Bellevue: Bellevue Downtown Park, 10:05 p.m.
- Tacoma: Ruston Way Waterfront Park, 10:10 p.m.
Interview has been edited for clarity.
