A message from the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office
information released, photo by BarbaraALane, pixabay
The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office would like you to keep fire and life safety in the forefront when you celebrate the new year. Fireworks are banned in many cities and counties across the state, so please contact your local fire marshal for all rules regarding the discharge of fireworks in your area. State Fireworks Law RCW 70.77.395 lists fireworks discharge periods as December 31, 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. midnight, and January 1, 12 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year. Washington State reported 508 fireworks-related injuries and/or fires in 2022, with fires resulting in over $2.5 million in property loss.
If fireworks are legal in your area and you are putting on your own fireworks display, follow these safety tips:
Do:
- Ensure adult supervision for any child using fireworks.
- Only purchase fireworks from a Washington State licensed retailer.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.
- Only light one firework at a time.
- Discard fireworks as directed.
Do Not:
- Allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers, as they can burn up to 1200° F.
- Consume alcohol when handling fireworks.
- Stand over fireworks while lighting them. Back up immediately after lighting.
- Point fireworks toward people or relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
- Wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Set off fireworks in glass or metal containers.
- Carry fireworks in your pockets.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at www.wsp.wa.gov/state-fire-marshals-office or at (360) 596-3929.
