Welcome to Skagit County
June 26, 2018
Make smart choices this Fourth of July: Keep it safe and sane
Skagit County fire departments and first responders need your help to keep the Fourth of July safe and sane. We’re asking that you know the fireworks laws, that you be a courteous neighbor, and that you make smart choices to keep your home and family safe.
Legal fireworks can be used in unincorporated Skagit County during the following dates and times:
- June 28 – noon to 11 p.m.
- June 29 through July 3 – 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- July Fourth – 9 a.m. to midnight
- July 5 – 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Many cities and towns within Skagit County have different laws regulating the use and sale of fireworks. If you live within city or town limits, please check your local laws. If you’re not sure whether you live within city or town limits, you can check out iMap: https://www.skagitcounty.net/Maps/iMap/ Town and city boundaries are shown by a dashed grey line. Fireworks are also illegal on state forestlands and in most parks.
“The Fourth is a great time to celebrate with friends and family,” said Deputy Fire Marshal Bonnie LaCount. “Even though we’ve had a few days of rain this month, fireworks still pose a serious fire risk. We’re asking that you celebrate safely. Make smart choices if you choose to use fireworks, and take extra precautions to ensure you don’t accidentally set dry brush or grass on fire.”
For those who want to enjoy fireworks without the personal risk, the Fire Marshal’s office recommends attending one of several public shows planned for Fourth:
- Big Lake fireworks show: 9 p.m. July 3, over Big Lake
- Anacortes: At dusk July 4, over Fidalgo Bay
- La Conner: 9 p.m. July 4, near the Port of Skagit
- Mount Vernon: At dusk, July 4, at Edgewater Park
- Sedro-Woolley: At dusk, July 4, at Riverside Park
Safe use of fireworks is extremely important. Every year, hospitals report at least one fireworks-related injury. For that reason, the Fire Marshal encourages residents to follow all the instructions printed on fireworks, and make sure fireworks are discharged in an open area, away from homes or large amounts of flammable material.
Additional firework safety tips include the following:
- Read all the instructions and warnings
- Have a hose and bucket of water nearby
- Light fireworks on a clear, flat surface
- Dispose of fireworks safely
- Don’t use illegal fireworks
- Don’t hold or lean over fireworks when discharging
- Don’t shoot fireworks at others
- Don’t take apart fireworks