Reminder: Fireworks legal in Lynnwood only on July 4

MyNNNIt’s OK to have a blast in Lynnwood on the Fourth of July – as long as you’re safe and abide by the law.

Lynnwood Police will be taking an enforcement stance regarding the illegal use of fireworks on and around the 4th of July. Legal fireworks can be discharged within the city limits of Lynnwood from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4 only.

The cities of Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Everett, Kenmore, Seattle and Bellevue will all be hosting aerial fireworks displays that are open to the public. Information about many of these events is available at https://www.snohomish.org/events-calendar.

All fireworks are dangerous, especially to children. Each year there are hundreds of injuries from fireworks in Washington State and nationally. Legal fireworks were responsible for nearly half of all injuries. Of the incidents involving legal fireworks, sparklers, which many parents feel safe allowing a child to use, caused 24 percent of the injuries.

The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks. But if you plan to use fireworks, use the following safety tips:

· Fireworks can be discharged within the city limits of Lynnwood from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4 only.

· Buy locally to be sure that you have purchased legal fireworks.

· If it blows-up (explodes) or goes-up (shoots like a rocket) it is illegal.

· Only adults should light fireworks. Do not overestimate your child’s ability to use good judgment.

· If a device doesn’t launch correctly DO NOT LOOK INTO THE TUBE. Serious injuries and death have occurred from this. Put it out with water and dispose of it.

· Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.

· Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.

· Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

· Stand several feet away from lit fireworks.

· Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it.

· Don’t store fireworks in plastic bags, static in the bags can ignite flash powder used in some fireworks.

Reminder: No fireworks allowed on school property at anytime

As the Fourth of July approaches, it is also important to remember that fireworks are banned from use while on school district property. The Edmonds School District will have some staff patrolling the schools to make certain school properties are safe, but additional sets of eyes are needed and they are seeking the public’s help. Fireworks are banned from the cities of Brier, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, and Woodway, and while the city of Lynnwood and unincorporated Snohomish County allow limited use on July 4 only, fireworks are still not allowed on district property within Lynnwood or the unincorporated county portions of the district at any time.

Call 911 if you see any kind of firework activity on any school district property.

Don’t forget about your pets

· If you can, stay home with your pets on the Fourth of July.

· Encourage calm behavior with praise and attention. (Don’t try to soothe and comfort a scared dog, it will only increase the problem. Instead be cheerful and in control.)

· Keep your dog indoors if you cannot be at home.

· Put the dog in an interior room that is safe and familiar.

· Make sure your dog is well identified in case of escape. (For example: updated micro chipping and a collar and tag.)

· Cat owners should also keep their cats indoors.

· Rabbits and other caged animals should be safely secured in a garage or outbuilding, away from the sight and sound of fireworks.

As an alternative, the cage can be covered with thick fabric to muffle the sound, making sure there is sufficient ventilation.

Enforcement of illegal use of fireworks range from confiscation of all fireworks materials to being charged with a felony. Unlawful sale or discharge of fireworks is a misdemeanor (fine up to $500). Unlawful possession of fireworks, depending on the type, could range from a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor (fine up to $1,000) to a class C felony ($5,000 with possible jail time), if in possession of an illegal explosive device (IED).

In case of emergency, or to request the Lynnwood Fire and/ or Police departments for a fireworks violation, dial 911.

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