Aberdeen Fire Department wants residents to “Celebrate Safely”
The Aberdeen Fire Department wishes everyone to celebrate safely with 4th of July celebrations approaching. They would like to remind residents that fireworks can be discharged in the City of Aberdeen between the hours of 9 AM and 12 Midnight on July 4th.
They remind residents to only purchase legal fireworks, available at licensed fireworks stands, and to keep a bucket of water and hose nearby to dispose of all fireworks and prevent fires. They also remind residents to ne considerate of neighbors and clean up the debris when finished.
Last year, fireworks related fire caused an estimated loss of $568,846 in Washington State and a 90% increase in homemade Sparkler Bombs. There were 476 fireworks-related injuries and/or fires reported to the State Fire Marshal by fire departments and hospital emergency rooms last year. In Grays Harbor County there were a total of 7 Fireworks related injuries in 2011.
The City of Aberdeen says that locally, fireworks regulations are more restrictive than at the state level.
• Sale of fireworks is allowed from 11:00AM July 1st until 11:00 PM July 4th.
• Discharge of fireworks is allowed only on July 4th 9:00AM until 12:00 Midnight.
• Lawful fireworks are defined as class C common fireworks and labeled U.N. 0336 1.4G
• It is unlawful to set off, ignite or aid in setting off any form of fireworks in a public place, which includes parks, sidewalks, streets and other pedestrian and automobile byways.
• It is unlawful to sell fireworks utilizing internet sale sites.
• Fireworks Legal on Tribal Land may not be legal off of Tribal lands.
Firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles and rockets are legal to possess and
discharge on tribal lands. These items are illegal in Washington State and
become illegal fireworks when possessed off tribal lands.
M-80’s and larger, dynamite and any improvised, homemade or altered
explosive devices such as tennis balls or cherry bombs are illegal
explosive devices.
General Fireworks Rules and Practices
Be Prepared before you light fireworks:
• Purchase only legal fireworks, available at licensed fireworks stands.
• Ensure safety of pets.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in which to place all used fireworks.
• Have a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
• Call 911 and give the correct address or location if an emergency arises.
• Know basic first aid
Be Safe, when lighting fireworks:
• Have a designated adult light all fireworks.
• Use eye protection.
• Light one firework at a time, move away quickly, and keep spectators at a safe distance until the display is finished.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 15-20 minutes and then soak it in water
• Use only outdoors and away from anything that can burn.
• To prevent injuries, follow the label directions carefully.
• Always remember, do not throw fireworks or hold in you hand.
Be Responsible, after you finish:
• Be considerate of neighbors and clean up the debris when finished.
• If a devise does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least five minutes and approach it carefully.
• Make sure all unused fireworks; matches and lighters are out of sight and reach of children.
