The Kent Fire Department wants to remind residents and visitors that the Fourth of July, while a time to celebrate our country’s independence, also is a day of potential injuries and fires.
• Fireworks go on sale June 28 but can only be discharged on July 4.
• The city of Kent allows fireworks to be discharged between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. The city of Covington and unincorporated King County allow fireworks to be discharged between 9 a.m. and midnight.
• 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.
• Discharging fireworks on Kent and Covington city property (including parks) as well as on Kent School District properties is prohibited.
• 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.
• 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.
Ways to celebrate safely
• Go see one of the area’s many free firework displays, including the Fourth of July Splash at Lake Meridian. Go to www.ci.kent.wa.us/fireprevention and click “fireworks” for more information.
• Only purchase and discharge legal fireworks. Keep in mind that many of the fireworks you buy on Native American reservations are not legal in Kent, Covington, and other cities.
• Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby while discharging fireworks.
• Always discharge fireworks under adult supervision. Remember that fireworks and alcohol consumption do not safely mix.
• When lighting fireworks, wear eye protection and only discharge one firework at a time. Place discharged fireworks in a bucket of water.
• Do not discharge fireworks where ground conditions are dry and the danger of fire is higher.
Other reminders include:
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