Are you getting ready to celebrate our great nation’s Independence Day? As you prepare for BBQ, friends, parades, and especially fireworks, please keep in mind some safety precautions. In 2011, there were 476 reported fireworks-related incidents in Washington State, 212 of which were physical injuries, and 264 fires that resulted in over $550,000 in property loss.
Consider attending one of the dozens of free public Firework Shows across the state. McClain Insurance is proud to be a partner with the City of Everett for their July 4th Colors of Everett fireworks display.
Looking forward to lighting your own fireworks? The Washington State Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the “3 B’s” of Firework Safety:
Be Prepared:
- Retail fireworks stands open across the state on June 28th. Purchase only legal fireworks from approved stands. Keep in mind that different cities or neighborhoods have different regulations for lighting fireworks.
- Keep pets indoors.
- Keep a bucket of water and a hose nearby. Place used fireworks into the water, and use the hose to extinguish stray sparks. If it hasn’t rained for several weeks prior to the Fourth in your area, consider giving your garden, shrubs and trees and possibly even your roof a thorough watering leading up to the holiday. (Considering the dreary June-uary we’ve experienced in Western Washington, the fire alert may be a little lower in our neck of the woods.)
- Talk with your family – especially young children – about firework safety and appropriate behavior. Consider alternative patriotic activities, such as crafts, baked goods, or glow-sticks.
- Check and re-stock your first-aid kit and keep it nearby.
Be Safe:
- Have only one designated adult be responsible for lighting fireworks.
- Light one at a time, move away quickly, and keep at a safe distance until the display is finished. If a firework doesn’t light, wait at least 15 minutes, then an adult should carefully approach it and place it in a bucket of water to soak.
- Never throw fireworks and never hold them in your hand.
- Use fireworks only outdoors, launch from a safe, level, fireproof surface, and away from trees and structures.
Be Responsible:
- Keep fireworks, matches and lighters out of the sight and reach of children.
- Clean up used fireworks and debris.