The following is a release from the city of Kirkland:
The city of Kirkland’s year-round fireworks ban prohibits the sale and use of all consumer fireworks as part of an effort to eliminate fires, injuries and calls for service. The city’s fireworks ban has reduced the number of fire-related accidents and complaints in the last decade.
The city is encouraging families to enjoy the public display of fireworks in downtown Kirkland at 10:15 p.m. this Fourth of July. Due to expected hotter and dryer than normal conditions and with an increased concern for uncontrolled fires during the 4th of July weekend, Kirkland Police and the Kirkland Fire Marshal’s office will be conducting emphasis patrols responding to reports of fireworks in unmarked vehicles to issue citations and enforce Kirkland’s ban on consumer fireworks.
To report fireworks emergencies, call 9-1-1. To report non-emergency violations of the fireworks ban, please call the NORCOM Dispatch at 425-577-5656.
Ban details
It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the retail sale of, or to sell, possess, use, transfer, discharge or explode any fireworks of any kind within the city of Kirkland with the following exceptions:
• Public displays performed by a Washington State licensed pyrotechnician • Proximate fireworks (includes theatrical use of fire) • Sparklers at specific events such as weddings, religious services, etc.
All activities related to public displays and proximate fireworks shall be in accordance with RCW 70.77 and WAC 212-17 and shall be reviewed by the Fire Marshal’s Office. For information on public display permitting requirements or about the ban, contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 425-587-3661.
Reporting violations
If you observe a fireworks emergency, please call 9-1-1. If you want to report fireworks being discharged near your property or in a public park or if you observe fireworks sales within city limits, please contact the NORCOM Dispatch Center at 425-557-5656. Fireworks complaint calls to NORCOM will be prioritized among all other calls for service.
Kirkland Police Department officers will have high visibility during the July 4 holiday weekend.
Fireworks and pets
Protect your pets over the July 4th weekend by keeping them secured indoors since loud noises may cause your pet to stray. Please ensure they have two forms of identification (e.g. King County pet license, name tag, microchip) as this will help reunite you with your pet. If you are looking for your lost pet, contact Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) at 206-296-3936, lostpets@kingcounty.gov or www.kingcounty.gov/LostPet.
Emergency preparedness and fire safety reminder
The theme of this year’s “Celebrate Kirkland 4th of July” event is “Ready, Set, Kirkland!” and is a reminder for residents and businesses to be prepared for emergencies and disasters. Get emergency preparedness tips at www.facebook.com/kirklandoem and www.twitter.com/oemkirkland.
With warmer and dryer weather, the Kirkland Fire Department encourages you to help prevent fires. Use caution with any open flame (e.g. barbecue grills, tiki torches, fire pits) and never leave an open flame unattended. Never grill inside, properly dispose of cigarette butts and use power equipment safely in dry grass.
