264 Wildland and vegetation fires caused by fireworks in 2011

State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy announced today that in 2011 there were 264 fires caused by fireworks. Wildland and vegetation fires accounted for 199, or 75% of all fireworks caused fires, resulting in $118,350 in loss.

Summer weather conditions make grasses and other vegetation dry and susceptible to fire. Using fireworks when it is hot and windy outside, a small fire can grow rapidly if the fuels (grass and other vegetation) are present. If a firework comes into contact with a vegetated area, use a hose or a bucket of water and soak the area, making sure that there isn’t a hot spot that could rekindle later.

To learn more about fireworks ordinances in cities and counties and other information regarding fireworks, check the web site. Independence Day is a time to celebrate our freedoms.

Personal fireworks require personal responsibility. Remember the three B’s of fireworks safety: 

• Be Prepared - Have water nearby and put pets indoors,
• Be Safe - Only adults should light fireworks, and
• Be Responsible - Clean up fireworks debris.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a Bureau of the Washington State Patrol, providing fire and life safety services to the citizens of Washington State including inspections of state licensed facilities, plan review of school construction projects, licensing of fire sprinkler contractors and pyrotechnic operators, training Washington State’s firefighters, and collecting emergency response data.