By Tom Maloney
Division Chief
Marysville Fire District

As we celebrate our independence, the Marysville Fire District reminds everyone that it is important to keep safety in mind.

The Marysville Fire District experiences more than a 100 percent increase in calls for service during the Fourth of July celebration, and offers the following tips to help reduce these unwanted incidents.

To help keep you safe please follow these simple tips:

• Never build or experiment with homemade fireworks.

• Never let children handle or light fireworks.  Even sparklers can be dangerous if unsupervised. The tip of a Sparkler burns at a temperature of over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Never ignite fireworks while holding them. Only light one at a time, and move quickly away.

n Make sure you give yourself enough room in a safe location – away from buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials.

• Never light fireworks inside a structure.

• Watch what you wear. Loose clothing can catch on fire, and should not be worn while handling fireworks.

• Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Soak them in water and throw away.

• Never ignite fireworks when you are under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs or mind-altering drugs.

• Have a bucket of water to douse used fireworks and for emergencies.

• Never aim fireworks at vehicles.

• Never discharge fireworks from vehicles.

• Be respectful of your neighbors.

• In case of an emergency dial 9-1-1.

Grilling Safety

To enjoy the riches of grilling, be mindful to prevent unwanted incidents. Never leave your grill unattended and follow these easy safety tips to prevent incidents:

• When using barbecue grills on decks or patios, be sure to leave sufficient space from siding and eaves.

• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.

• Keep children and pets far away from grills.

• With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit.

• With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have the grill repaired by a professional, if necessary.

The Marysville Fire District wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July as we act responsibly during this time of celebration.

Division Chief Tom Maloney can be contacted at tmaloney@marysvillewa.gov.