It’s sunny and it’s the 4th of July, so somebody has to be a party-pooper and remind us of the dangers of the season.
The particular danger this time of year is, of course, fire. Through the years Whidbey Island has had its share of fiery disasters over the Fourth, from people losing the homes to animals in the forests and grasslands losing their homes. All it takes is tinder-dry conditions like we have now and one careless person with a firecracker, sparkler or some other incendiary device.
Oak Harbor, North Whidbey and Central Whidbey firefighters are on particular alert this weekend, with one ear turned in to their pagers while the other is listing to spouses, children and friends enjoy the holiday. Quick response is essential in any fire situation, but let’s hope our firefighters get a break this weekend and can stay home, or go downtown and enjoy the parade and carnival, without worrying about fighting a fire.
Washington State Fire Marshal Michael G. Matlick reminds us this week that last year there were 518 fires statewide caused by fireworks over the Independence Day holiday.
Beyond the threat of fire is the danger of personal injury. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that more than 9,000 fireworks-related injuries happen each year of which half are head injuries and one-fourth of fireworks-related eye injuries result in permanent vision loss or blindness.
Law enforcement personnel such as Island County Sheriff Mark Brown and Oak Harbor Police Chief Rick Wallace remind people that there are legal consequences to damages caused by the irresponsible use of fireworks, ranging from being charged with malicious mischief to assault or a gross misdemeanor for possession of illegal explosive devices such as fireworks that have been tampered with or altered. A gross misdemeanor can bring a fine of up to $5,000 and one year in prison. Possession of illegal explosive devices, such as M-80’s, M-100’s and larger, altered fireworks, and public display mortars, is a federal offense.
Preventing fires or injury is relatively simple. Experts recommend following the three “Be’s.”
• Be prepared: Have water nearby and put pets indoors.
• Be Safe: Only adults should light fireworks.
• Be Responsible: Clean up fireworks debris.
Have yourself a Fourth of July to remember, full of watermelon, water pistols, sparklers, fireworks and friends. If you’re safe, all your memories will be happy
