By Joe Veyera
The Seattle Fire Department (SFD) is reminding local residents that setting off fireworks in a display of patriotism this Fourth of July next Friday is strongly discouraged and illegal within the Seattle city limits.
The use of fireworks, along with the possession, manufacture, storage, sale or handling thereof is prohibited. According to the Seattle Police Department (SPD), fireworks offenses are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. However, the SFD & SPD asks residents to not call 911 for non-emergency reports of fireworks.
According to the SFD, around 35 percent of those hospitalized for fireworks injuries in 2012 were under the age of 15. As noted by the National Fire Protection Association, even small pyrotechnics like sparklers, fountains and novelties accounted for one-quarter of the emergency room fireworks injuries that year.
The SFD recommends taking in one of the many public fireworks displays to celebrate the holiday. The closest option for those in Ballard is the Seafair Summer Fourth celebration at Gasworks Park (2101 N Northlake Way). Gates open at noon for that event, with a full-day of activities capped off by a 10 p.m. fireworks show. To view a full list of professional fireworks shows in Washington state by county, click here.
Photo courtesy of the Seattle Fire Department