Every year around the Fourth of July, 911 operators are inundated with calls regarding fireworks. The majority of these calls are non-emergency related, but tie up the 911 system, potentially delaying an emergency call from getting through.
The questions below has been produced with input from a number of Emergency Dispatch Centers and should be used as a guide in determining when call 911 regarding fireworks.
• Are fireworks legal within the city or county I live in?
No, do not call 911. Fireworks inquiries can be answered by searching the internet for local restrictions or calling the local police or fire department’s non-emergency phone number.
• I want to report fireworks violations:
- Being used in a fireworks ban area
- Time of use (after 11:00 p.m. and before 9:00 a.m.)
No, do not call 911. Fireworks violations may be reported by calling the police department’s non-emergency phone number.
• I have a firework related injury from using fireworks, example:
- Burns
- Injury to eye
- Severed body parts
Yes, call 911.
• A fire has started from the use of fireworks.
Yes, call 911.
• The neighbor is using illegal fireworks (M-80s).
Yes, call 911 or the local police department’s non-emergency phone number.
Where do I get a Fireworks Stand License?
No, do not call 911. Call the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3913, or check the internet:http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fir
• I have old consumer fireworks I want to get rid of.
No, do not call 911. Call the local police or fire department’s non-emergency phone number.
• I have found a short piece of pipe with a fuse coming out of it.
Yes, call 911. Leave the device where it is and do not pick it up.
• There is a storage container at the neighbor’s house loaded with fireworks.
No, do not call 911. Call the local police or fire department’s non-emergency phone number.
• My next door neighbor is making fireworks in his garage.
Yes, call 911.
For more information about fireworks safety, public fireworks displays and the fireworks laws for your area, check our website at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fir
