Firework sales start June 28; state fire marshal urges care

Retail firework stands open across the state on June 28, 2011, Washington State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy wants to remind everyone that, “Personal fireworks require personal responsibility.”

In 2010, 575 fireworks incidents were reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. There were 162 injuries, of which 50 were children under the age of 14. “There is much that can be done to protect children and others from fireworks injuries,” said Duffy.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following information for firework safety:

First, set family boundaries; only adults should light fire...