Fireworks in state injured 432 last year

There were 432 fireworks-related injuries and fires reported to the state Fire Marshal’s Office by fire departments and hospitals in 2014.

The majority of the incidents occurred on July 4, with demographic trends indicating that the highest number of injuries were sustained by men ages 36  and older.

The incidents of greatest concern:

• 155 fires resulted in $320,240 in damage and property loss. Residential fires resulted in $161,050 in damages – or 50 percent of the total loss.

• 66 injuries were caused by devices which are illegal to own or possess in Washington State.

• 8 sparkler bomb devices caused six multiple trauma injuries, and also resulted in two fires. These devices are considered improvised explosive devices which are illegal to manufacture and possess. Injuries as a result of one of these devices included metal puncture wounds, burns, tearing of the hands, and trauma to the face, chest and legs.

“Never attempt to make your own fireworks,” says State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy in a media release. “Talk to your families about fireworks and safety. Be sure to set family boundaries, only responsible adults should light fireworks. Always store fireworks in a secure location; making sure that they are out of reach and sight of curious children. Personal fireworks require personal responsibility.”

Always remember to use the three B’s of fireworks safety:

• Be Prepared: have water nearby and put pets indoors

• Be Safe: only adults should light fireworks

• Be Responsible: clean up fireworks debris

For more information about fireworks safety, public fireworks displays and the fireworks laws for your area, check the Celebrate Safely website at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fireworks.htm.