With the Fourth of July quickly approaching, Lake Stevens Fire and the Lake Stevens Police Department want to remind the community of a few things to celebrate safely.
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration across the country, and here in Lake Stevens fireworks are a crowd favorite each year.  Whether at a professional show or in the backyard, fireworks can be fun to watch but they can also be very dangerous.
In 2007, approximately 40 percent of the people injured by fireworks were under the age of 15.
The temperature at the tip of a sparkler can reach 1200-1800 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily cause a third degree burn.
The fireworks that cause the most injuries to people and pets are small firecrackers, sparklers and rockets.
Most injuries from fireworks are of the hands, head and eyes.
In 2006, fireworks started over 32,000 fires in the U.S.
The following is recommended for adults using fireworks:
• Light fireworks only on smooth, flat surfaces, and aim them away from spectators, buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Do not try to relight fireworks that malfunction.
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or hold them close to your face.
• Visit www.recalls.gov to make sure the pyrotechnic devices you are using are not subject to any safety recalls.
• Do not modify fireworks or use homemade fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher on hand in case a firework malfunctions or needs to be cooled before disposal.
• Make sure pets are in a safe place; animals can become innocent victims of stray fireworks and may experience anxiety from the noise.
• Be a good neighbor and be respectful of your neighbors’ property, family and pets.
The use of fireworks in Lake Stevens is permitted on July 4 from 9a.m. to midnight only. Make note that most fireworks bought on the reservation are illegal. Persons caught with illegal fireworks will be cited.
Lake Stevens Fire nor Lake Stevens Police endorses the use of consumer fireworks and instead encourages the public to enjoy displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals. 

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