Fireworks Stands Multiply, But Many Cities Still Ban Use

The state Fire Marshal's Office has announced that fireworks stand licenses have increased 5 percent in 2014 in comparison to 2013, according to a news release.

The state issued 46 more licenses for stands this year. Of those 46 licenses, 38 were in the Puget Sound area.

Sales of fireworks can begin June 28 and can continue until July 5.

The state fire marshal notes that many cities and counties, including most cities in Yakima County, ban fireworks. The only two cities that have not banned the use of fireworks in the county are Mattawa and Zillah.

Mattawa restricts sales to June 28 and July 1-4, and limits use to certain times of day from June 28 through July 5. The city of Zillah does not permit sales, but does allow the use of fireworks on July 3 and July 4 only.

The fire marshal's office recommends attending a public fireworks display and lists information on each of the displays and laws around the state on their website.

However people choose to celebrate Independence Day, firefighters remind people to do it safely.