The Federal Way Police Department and South King Fire & Rescue remind residents that all fireworks are illegal within the Federal Way city limits. Police will issue tickets for fireworks violations.
The police department will have special enforcement teams patrolling the city for violators before, during and after the Fourth of July holiday. Emphasis patrols will cover Celebration Park, Steel Lake Park and other parks, as well as neighborhoods throughout the city.
The Police Department would like to remind residents that:
• Fireworks have always been illegal in the city limits of Federal Way.
• Police are committed to ongoing education and enforcement efforts.
• Officers will respond to citizen complaints regarding noise, safety and non-compliance with the law and regulations.
• Specific neighborhoods and residents with ongoing or repeated violations will be targeted.
• Tickets will be issued with an emphasis on enforcement and confiscation of illegal fireworks. Firework infractions carry a $300 penalty.
• Any person who discharges or uses a firework in a reckless manner that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person or damage to property will be charged with a criminal gross misdemeanor.
In all cases, police officers will confiscate fireworks.
“Recreational fireworks can be dangerous, resulting in serious burns and injury. As parents and adults, it is our responsibility to protect our children from preventable and senseless fireworks-related incidents this Fourth of July. Keeping our community safe is our number one priority,” Police Chief Andy Hwang said in a media release.
In unincorporated King County, fireworks are only supposed to be of the “safe and sane” variety. In either case, residents are urged to be safe, smart and very careful this year as there has already been an increase in the number of fires due to the dry conditions.
“On behalf of the fire department, we want to wish everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July,” South King Fire and Rescue Chief Allen Church said in a media release. “This is a great opportunity to rejoice in our independence by attending a community celebration, such as the Red, White and Blues festival at Celebration Park or one of the many other venues in our area. Please set a good example by obeying the laws concerning the lighting of fireworks in or outside of the city. Firework injuries and related fires are 100-percent preventable.”
Experience proves that fireworks pose a significant risk to health and safety. Federal Way residents are encouraged to call 253-835-2121 to report fireworks violations. Emergencies and fires should be reported to 911.
