Thursday, March 28, 2024

Reminder: Public use of fireworks prohibited in Chelan County

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CHELAN - With Fourth of July festivities commencing Thursday, we remind all that public use of fireworks is prohibited in Chelan County. Those who do not follow the law could face serious penalties, including being financially responsible in case a fire sparks from the explosive.

Chelan Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Tim Lemon stated that the public can only discharge fireworks on New Year’s Eve. “The rest of the year you can’t discharge fireworks legally, unless it is an approved fireworks show with a fireworks technician,” said Lemon.

As a reminder Lemon mentioned that if you see anyone lighting up fireworks, report them to 911 and not the fire department. “We are not an enforcement agency. If we come across something, we do the same thing, we call the law. The only time we get involved is if someone or something catches on fire,” Lemon added.

Lemon also had a few safety tips to share for those who will be enjoying the fireworks show in Manson and Chelan. Lemon encourages all to “get out there early and be patient with traffic. Plenty of food and stay hydrated, the evenings are cold so have a blanket.” For those people viewing the show from their boat, Lemon recommends to “have safety precautions with a vest and do not drink and drive your boat, or car.”

 Even though Chelan County is under a burn ban as of June 1, recreational fires are still allowed. For those who will be out barbecuing make sure the coals are completely out. “Do not dump your coals in the brush, soak them down with water and take them home to dispose them,” mentioned Lemon. Open fires usually start being banned when the County is under extreme fire danger. To check if recreational fires are still permitted call your local fire station and/or Department of Ecology (DOE).

June 22 Fire caused by fireworks
According to Lemon an investigation is ongoing however what might have caused the fire was someone throwing fireworks from their vehicle in the Boyd Rd. and Highpoint area. “What somebody thought it was funny, turned into a 2.7 acre brush fire and jeopardized two homes,” said Lemon. He mentioned that all five Chelan fire stations responded to the fire along with mutual aid from the Manson Fire Department and Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The fire also caused conflicts with Rotary’s Century Challenge, “they were compromised, they couldn’t use the road. No one else could use the road.” The individuals who caused the fire will be fined and will be responsible for fire suppression costs.

With the high fire dangers Lemon wants to remind all to take action, “if you think something is ongoing, call us early so we can get out there and make sure there’s nothing out of hand.”

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