King County Fire District #28, the City of Enumclaw, and the Enumclaw Police Department want to remind residents and visitors that the Fourth of July, while a time to celebrate our Country’s Independence, is also a day of potential injuries and fires.

“The fire season has come upon us much earlier this year compared to previous years. We encourage the residents of King County Fire District #28 to use caution this year as they celebrate Independence Day due to the high fire danger within the Fire District,” said District Chairman Stan McCall.

City of Enumclaw Mayor Liz Reynolds is also concerned as the holiday approaches, “Due to extreme dryness, low humidity and elevated fire risk, I reach out to residents of the Enumclaw plateau and urge everyone to use extreme caution during the Fourth of July weekend.”

Here are some tips to help you have a safe Fourth of July:

1. Go see the area’s free firework display, at the Boise Creek baseball complex. Parking will be available at the Southwood soccer fields. The show begins at dusk.

2. Only purchase and discharge legal fireworks. Keep in mind that many of the fireworks you buy on reservations are not legal in Enumclaw and other cities.

3. Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby while discharging

4. Always discharge fireworks under adult supervision. Remember that fireworks and alcohol consumption do not safely mix.

5. When lighting fireworks, wear eye protection and only discharge one firework at a time. Place discharged fireworks in a bucket of water.

6. Do not discharge fireworks where ground conditions are dry and the danger of fire is higher.

Also remember:

1. Fireworks go on sale June 28th but can only be discharged on July 4th.

2. The City of Enumclaw allows fireworks to be discharged between 9:00 am and 11:00 pm. Unincorporated King County allow fireworks to be discharged between 9:00 am and midnight.

3. Increased safety emphasis patrols by the Enumclaw Police Department will be out this year. Fines for illegal discharging/possession can exceed $1,000.

4. Illegal or unwanted fireworks can be dropped off at the Enumclaw Police Station without

5. Discharging fireworks on Enumclaw city property (including parks) as well as on Enumclaw School District properties is prohibited.

6. If you see or hear illegal fireworks being discharged, call 9-1-1. High call volumes on the Fourth of July may delay non-life and property safety responses.

7. Be a good neighbor and clean up any debris from fireworks. Also safely store any matches and lighters so children do not have access to them.

King County Fire District #28, the City of Enumclaw, and the Enumclaw Police Department hope that the residents and visitors to this area have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.