Celebrate safely this Independence Day. Firework risk should be taken seriously | Opinion
As the summer heat settles in and the Fourth of July approaches, thoughts naturally turn to celebrations of American independence. For many people, no celebration is complete without a fireworks display — a dazzling spectacle that lights up the night sky and symbolizes America’s collective spirit of freedom.
With fire season underway, it’s important to leave those celebrations to the professionals. The Benton and Franklin County fire marshals have upgraded the counties’ fire danger level to high until further notice. The Washington Department of Natural Resources has banned dispersed fires on state lands throughout the region because of elevated fire danger. One stray bottle rocket, Roman candle or handful of sparks could set this tinderbox ablaze.
This year, it’s more important than ever to resist the urge to set off personal fireworks in residential areas or near dry grass and vegetation. The potential consequences are severe, including catastrophic wildfires that threaten lives, homes, and our natural surroundings. Our firefighters and emergency responders are already stretched thin managing existing incidents, and every preventable fire hampers their efforts to keep our community safe. Let’s all do our part to prevent these unnecessary risks.
As of last Thursday June 27, the Pioneer Fire had burned over 4,400 acres near Wenatchee. In Yakima County, the Beam Road Fire had consumed more than 9,000 acres and forced evacuations.
A recent fire at Tri-City Pallets illustrated our current fire danger, with several other fires started by the wind blowing embers along Highway 12.
Besides the critical risk of wildfire, there are several other important reasons to avoid setting off fireworks on the Fourth of July.
Foremost is the risk of injury. Doctors don’t like to be on call around July Fourth because too many reckless people wind up in the emergency room after mishandling fireworks. They suffer from severe burns, eye injuries and hearing damage, not to mention the rare-but-possible blown off finger. Even seemingly harmless fireworks like sparklers can cause harm.
The noise from fireworks can distressing pets, wildlife and neighbors, particularly those with PTSD or other traumas.
Yes, it’s fun to set off fireworks. Maybe you have fond memories of doing so as a kid or perhaps backyard displays are a family tradition. But, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate, such as attending community events, hosting gatherings with family and friends, or participating in local parades and festivities.
People needn’t forgo fireworks entirely, of course. Professional displays provide all the thrills, colorful lights and booms. Local authorities and organizations have planned several such displays across the Tri-Cities area, offering various options for families and individuals to partake in a safe and memorable celebration.
Let’s make this Fourth of July a time to come together and honor our nation’s history with reasonable caution, respect and a shared responsibility towards our community and environment. Together, we can ensure that this Fourth of July is not only festive but safe and enjoyable for all.
Professional Fireworks Shows in the Tri-Cities Area
River of Fire Festival - Kennewick
Fireworks, food trucks, live entertainment, a beer garden, and Kids Zone.
Date: July 4
Time: 2 - 10:30 p.m.
Location: Columbia Park
Pasco’s Grand Old 4th of July Celebration
Two days’ worth of family-friendly activities, from a baseball game and bike ride to fireworks and parade.
Date: June 29 and July 4
Location: Several locations in Pasco
Tri-City Dust Devils Fireworks Nights
Watch the Tri-Cities’ minor league baseball team and enjoy post-game fireworks.
Date: July 3
Location: Gesa Stadium, 6200 Burden Blvd, Pasco
Information from Visit Tri-Cities. More events and information at visittri-cities.com.
