The Danger of Fireworks

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration but can also be a dangerous and costly holiday. Each year, fireworks cause thousands of dollars in property damage statewide, and this year could be even worse.

According to the Washington State Fire Marshal's Office, crews responded to more than 470 fireworks-related emergencies which resulted in almost $570,000 in property loss statewide. And 75 percent of those incidents sparked brush fires.

Fire marshals say even though the weather has been unseasonably rainy and cool, during the next few days triple digit temperatures will dry everything right up again making conditions very dangerous.

"It's generally like it's going to be this year, dry. We have a lot of wild land fires during that time so in addition to the fireworks it's a very busy time for them. Every time they respond they're at risk so we want to minimize that as much as possible," said Yakima County Fire Marshal, Jakki MacLean.

Very few cities in surrounding counties allow the use of fireworks so be sure learn the laws before setting off any rockets. Anyone caught could face up to a $1,000 fine or 90 days in jail.