Firefighters expecting another busy Fourth of July weekend

Firefighters in the Pacific Northwest region are gearing up for what is expected to be a busy Fourth of July weekend as fireworks-related injuries have increased 25% nationwide in the past 15 years.

While the Fourth is the busiest day of the year for many firefighters, it can be even busier for law enforcement too.

“I’ve called in several 911 calls because of people and fires you see to get started. So, it’s very dangerous,” said Jason DeLauder, a Tacoma resident.

DeLauder expects another busy Fourth of July for firefighters. However, new laws that have gone into effect across Puget Sound might flip the script.

“If you are going to use fireworks, you do need to check what the rules and regulations are where you live. If fireworks are illegal, you need to know which ones are illegal,” said Kelly Hawks with the Valley Regional Fire Authority, which covers 37 miles across Auburn, Algona and Pacific.

In unincorporated King County, fireworks have been banned. It is the first year of the ban.

In Seattle and Tacoma, fireworks were already banned.

For those who break the law, Hawks said many have learned the hard way. She showed KIRO 7 a mortar from an incident a few years ago.

“When it shot off, it exploded out the bottom. You see how that’s destroyed there, and actually, that person ended up losing their hand,” said Hawks.

According to Washington State Patrol, the most fireworks-related incidents occur on the Fourth of July.

Last year in Washington, there were 110 fires sparked by fireworks, resulting in $122,000 in losses.

There were also 70 injuries, but that number came down by 30% from the previous year.

To enjoy a fireworks display, firefighters and cities are recommending people attend fireworks shows such as Tacoma’s 4th of July Summer Blast, which is returning after a three-year hiatus.

“I don’t think you’ll ever be able to take fireworks away from people, but this is really cool show,” said Jo Borden, a Ruston resident.

“Well, this is the big show and it’s free,” John Borden said.