By Tom Maloney

Another 4th of July is upon us, and the celebrations will undoubtedly be different in Marysville.

The fireworks ban prohibits the use, possession and sale of all fireworks within city limits. Violators face a minimum $103 fine or even jail time, depending on the offense.

We will be experiencing hotter, dryer weather as summer gets into full swing – conditions that make fireworks even more dangerous. Even if you are trying to be responsible fireworks can still cause serious damage. That happened in 2009 when a Marysville home burned because of fireworks. It also happened in 2015 when our crews responded to three amputation injuries caused by fireworks. Unfortunately we continue to see these types of incidents, and no one is immune to the danger. Even sparklers, which many people think are harmless, burn at more than 1,200 degrees – hot enough to melt metal.

We want your family to have a fun and safe holiday, so we hope that you will abide by the new fireworks ban and save yourself from a ticket. If you’d like to enjoy fireworks, consider attending one of the free professional shows in Arlington, Everett, Darrington or Edmonds.

If you live in an area where fireworks are legal, remember that fireworks are for adults only. Never try to relight fireworks that malfunction, carry fireworks in your pocket or hold them close to your face. Also avoid modifying fireworks or using homemade ones. These are explosives and should be treated that way. Fireworks are legal in unincorporated Snohomish County, only on July 4, from 9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

If you have questions about the fireworks law, we’ve posted helpful information at www.marysvillefiredistrict.org/fireworks.

We look forward to an enjoyable and safe Independence Day in our community.

Tom Maloney is the deputy chief/fire marshal with the Marysville Fire District.