State Fire Marshal’s Office
State Fire Marshal Charles P. LeBlanc
June 26, 2019
Olympia – In 2018, the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) received 301 reports of fireworks-related incidents by hospitals, clinics, and fire agencies in Washington State. Of the 301 reports received, there were 209 injuries and 92 fires. Fireworks-related incidents most often occur on July 4th.
Breakdown of incidents:
- 209 injuries reported; 10 percent lower than the 10 year average.
- 92 fires reported due to fireworks use, resulting in a loss of $161,475.
- 88 injuries were caused by holding the fireworks once lit.
- 71 of the 92 fires were classified as wildland or vegetation.
Washingtonians can enjoy consumer fireworks in a safe and responsible way, if they follow a few simple tips. When planning your fireworks fun, remember to:
- Be Prepared – Buy only legal fireworks, have water nearby while lighting and keep pets indoors.
- Be Safe – Only adults should light fireworks. Never light fireworks in your hand and never use them indoors. Always light one firework at a time.
- Be Responsible – Clean up fireworks debris and soak used fireworks with water. Keep matches and lighters away from children.
For more information about fireworks related information visit https://wsp.wa.gov/prevention-data-collection/, or call (360) 596-3929.
PDF Version of Press Release: Fireworks Incident Data for 2018
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