Retail sales of fireworks begin on June 28 in Marysville, and continue through July 4 at licensed stands only.

Along with this fireworks season comes the busiest part of the year for Marysville Fire District emergency crews. We always respond to an increased number of emergencies in the days around the Fourth of July holiday. Last year, there were nearly 70 fireworks-related emergencies included a severe facial injury to one person, a house fire with $125,000 damage and a stabbing incident. Many fireworks emergencies involve children and most occur on the Fourth, the one and only day when fireworks may be legally used in Marysville to celebrate our Independence Day.

All fireworks are dangerous, even when used legally. If you choose to include fireworks in your holiday celebration, please celebrate safely. Here are some safety guidelines to lower your risk of injury or fire from fireworks:

n Be prepared before you light fireworks.

n Purchase only legal fireworks, available at licensed stands.

n Store fireworks out of children’s reach.

n Keep pets safely away from fireworks.

n Carefully select an area appropriate for discharge of fireworks.

n Always keep water handy in bucket, garden hose, or fire extinguisher.

n Be safe when lighting fireworks.

n Only adults should light fireworks. Our teen population has seen the most fireworks related injuries in the county.

n Don’t throw or hold fireworks in your hand. Holding fireworks is the leading causes of fireworks injuries.

n Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.

n Keep spectators a safe distance away.

n Never try to relight a “dud.” Wait 15 minutes, then approach carefully and place it in a bucket of water.

n Be responsible after you finish.

n Be considerate and clean up used fireworks.

n Soak used fireworks in water overnight.

n Keep matches and lighters away from children.

Please, celebrate safely. Independence Day is a time to celebrate freedom; let’s include freedom from fireworks related injuries and fires. Remember to be prepared, be safe, and be responsible with fireworks. Let’s work together to keep our families, friends, and neighbors safe from fireworks related tragedies.

Teach children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothes catch on fire. Report any emergency immediately by calling 911.