Personal Fireworks Require Personal Responsibility

Washington State Fire Marshal - State Fire Marshal Michael G. Matlick announced today that with retail fireworks stands opening across the state on June 28th, everyone is reminded that, “Personal fireworks require personal responsibility.”

In 2008, 785 fireworks incidents were reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, with 27% of these incidents having no adult supervision. This included 267 injuries, of which 95 were children under the age of 14. “There is much that can be done to protect children and others from fireworks injuries,” says Matlick who offers the following, “First, set family boundaries, only adults should light fireworks. Supervision is paramount in keeping children safe. Second, fireworks should not be readily available to tempt the curiosity of young children, and should be stored in a secured location to prohibit their access. Third, check with your local fire or police department for additional restrictions in your area. Most importantly talk about safety. Summer weather conditions make grass and other vegetation dry and vulnerable to fire. Use care in selecting the area where you will be discharging fireworks.”

Don’t take any chances; be sure the fireworks you purchase are legal to possess and discharge. Know the dates and times fireworks are allowed in your community. Stay away from high powered illegal explosive devices such as M80’s and M100’s. The damage they cause can be devastating, life altering, and even result in death.

Remember the three B’s of fireworks safety:

• Be Prepared—Have water nearby and put pets indoors,
• Be Safe—Only adults should light fireworks, and
• Be Responsible—clean up fireworks debris.

Attending a public display is a safe and fun way to enjoy fireworks.

To learn about a community fireworks display near you, visit our website at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fireworks.htm.

For more information contact your local fire department, or the Office of the State Fire Marshal at (360) 596-3916.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a Bureau of the Washington State Patrol, providing fire and life safety services to the citizens of Washington State including inspections of state licensed facilities, plan review of school construction projects, licensing of fire sprinkler contractors and pyrotechnic operators, training Washington State’s firefighters, and collecting emergency response data.