Kent Fire Department offers fireworks safety tips

The Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority wants to remind residents and visitors that the Fourth of July, while a time to celebrate our country’s independence, is also a day of potential injuries and fires.

Fire officials offer the following safety tips:

1. Go see one of the area’s many free firework displays, including the Fourth of July Splash at Lake Meridian. The Splash entertainment begins at noon and the fireworks show at 10 p.m.

2. Only purchase and discharge legal fireworks. Keep in mind that many of the fireworks you buy on Native American reservations are illegal in Kent, Covington, and other cities.

3. Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby while discharging fireworks.

4. Always discharge fireworks under adult supervision. Remember that fireworks and alcohol consumption do not safely mix.

5. When lighting fireworks, wear eye protection and only discharge one firework at a time. Place discharged fireworks in a bucket of water.

6. Do not discharge fireworks where ground conditions are dry and the danger of fire is higher.

Also remember:

1. Fireworks go on sale June 28 but can only be discharged on July 4.

2. The city of Kent allows fireworks to be discharged between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. July 4. The city of Covington and unincorporated King County allow fireworks to be discharged between 9 a.m. and midnight.

3. Safety emphasis patrols by the Kent Police and Fire Departments will be out and illegal fireworks confiscated. Fines for illegal discharging/possession can exceed $1,000.

4. Illegal or unwanted fireworks can be dropped off at any Kent Fire Department fire station without penalty or fine.

5. Discharging fireworks on Kent and Covington city property (including parks) as well as on Kent School District properties is prohibited.

6. If you see or hear illegal fireworks being discharged, call 911. High call volumes on the Fourth of July may delay non-life and property safety responses.

7. Be a good neighbor and clean up any debris from fireworks. Also safely store any matches and lighters so children do not have access to them.

Contact Kent Reporter Courts, government reporter Steve Hunter at shunter@kentreporter.com or 253-872-6600, ext. 5052.

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