Redmond, WA – The continued high temperatures and dry conditions are increasing the danger of wildfires in the region. As the holiday weekend approaches, fire department officials are urging citizens’ celebrations to voluntarily exclude the use of fireworks in areas of unincorporated King County and Fire District 34. Fireworks are banned within the City of Redmond.

According to Fire Chief Tommy Smith of the City of Redmond Fire Department, “Fireworks are not banned in Fire District 34 (unincorporated King County) but all of the King County fire agencies are urging citizens to attend one of the many professional public fireworks displays during the Fourth of July weekend”. Smith added, “Please help us support community safety during this unusual and dangerous wildfire season by excluding fireworks from private celebrations and participating in a voluntary ban of fireworks in Fire District 34.” Public fireworks displays are listed here:fireworks displays wa

Prolonged dry weather and below average spring rainfall have cured grass and vegetation growth, creating high fire danger nearly six weeks earlier than normal. Last year in King County fire agencies responded to nearly 200 fire calls with 82 of them related to fireworks, as reported in the 2014 Washington State Fire Marshal report.

“Please consider reducing the fire danger by participating in a voluntary ban of fireworks and celebrating this holiday with a high concern for our community’s safety.” said Chief Smith.

While the Fire Department says it is not advisable to light fireworks, please follow the three B’s – Be Prepared, Be Safe, and Be Responsible.

Fireworks are banned in the city of Redmond. Fireworks may only be discharged in unincorporated King County on July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight.

Fireworks sales are legal beginning at noon on June 28 until 11 p.m. and then daily between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. through July 4. No sales can occur after July 4. To purchase fireworks you must be at least 16 years of age with picture identification.