‘Don’t blow it’ this weekend when it comes to fireworks, says Seattle Fire

“Don’t blow it.” — That’s the message from Seattle firefighters when it comes to fireworks.

They say last year, 237 people in Washington were burned or injured, including a teen who lost his thumb after fireworks exploded in his hands.

Harborview Burn Center has said that more than half of recent fireworks injuries are to the hands and face. But they also see injuries in the groin from people holding fireworks in their laps.

So they’re asking us to “leave fireworks to the professionals.”

Where to watch a fireworks show in Seattle and beyond

Don’t blow it this weekend when it comes to fireworks! Last year, 237 people in WA were burned or injured, including a teen who lost his thumb, after fireworks exploded in his hands. This year, be smart and stay whole!
Read more: https://t.co/oOJWvhINwX pic.twitter.com/YT5EOxP2VI

— Seattle Fire Dept. (@SeattleFire) June 30, 2021

The Seattle Fire Department says they responded to 16 fireworks-related fires last year, including two structure fires. One significant fire happened July 4, 2020, in West Seattle where dry brush was ignited in front of a four-story apartment building. No one was injured, but several residents were displaced and the total estimated loss was $100,000.

Concern mounts over fireworks, dry conditions ahead of 4th of July weekend

The recent hot, dry weather only increases the risk for dry grass, bark, and brush fires.

The sale of consumer fireworks in select parts of the state began on Monday, extending through 11 p.m. on July 5. State law permits the use of legally purchased fireworks through that end date as well, although many cities and counties have their own restrictions in place. That includes cities like Seattle, where fireworks are strictly prohibited.

State Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz signed an order issuing a statewide burn ban on all forest lands under the Washington State Department of Natural Resources fire protection.

Effective July 2, the order bans outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes and prescribed burns on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection through Sept. 30, 2021.

The KIRO Radio Newsdesk contributed to this report.

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