With fireworks sales beginning on Tuesday, June 28^th, Longview Fire Marshal Jon Dunaway reminds residents to use fireworks safely and responsibly and to comply with all local and state laws.

According to the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office, in 2021 there were 842 reported fireworks-related fires caused by fireworks - resulting in losses totaling over $4.5 million within Washington State.  The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks start over 19,000 fires and send over 9,000 people to emergency departments each year in the United States.

“If you are going to be celebrating July 4^th with consumer fireworks, be sure you are aware of how to use them to reduce your chances of injuries and fires.  Also, become familiar with the laws regarding which fireworks are legal and when they can be used”, Dunaway said.  “Don’t become a statistic.” 

Dunaway also emphasized that the use of personal fireworks without a permit in Longview city parks is illegal.  “Over the years, we’ve seen damage to plastic play structures from fireworks.  When damaged they must be repaired or replaced for the safety of the children who play on them, which gets expensive” he said. 

• Be Prepared - Use only legal fireworks that are purchased locally at licensed sales locations.  Fireworks purchased outside of the city (such as on Tribal lands or online) are often of a type not allowed by state law.  Keep pets indoors so they don’t get scared and run away.  And always have a source of water nearby (a bucket of water or garden hose) just in case.
• Be Safe – Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and dry vegetation.  Follow the directions on the device and do not hold in your hand or throw fireworks.  Always place fireworks on a hard, level surface so that they don’t tip over.  Never try to re-light a ‘dud’ – wait 20 minutes and then place it in a bucket of water.
• Be Responsible – Soak all used fireworks in water overnight to be sure they are completely cold before placing them in the trash.      Never place used fireworks debris in or near your home.  Keep matches and lighters away from children.  And be a good neighbor – use fireworks only during legal dates / times and discharge them in a manner that keeps debris on your property.     

Fireworks can be used in the City of Longview during these dates and times:

June 28^th                                                      12:00 p.m. (noon) to 11:00 p.m.

June 29^th through July 3^rd                              9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

July 4^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight)

July 5^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

          December 31^st (New Year’s Eve)                     6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on January 1^st

To report complaints about fireworks, please call the Longview Police Department non-emergency number at 360-442-5800, Option #4.   

For additional information about fireworks use and safety, visit the Longview Fire Department’s web page at https://www.mylongview.com/656/Fireworks.  You can also contact us at 360-442-5503 or via e-mail at LFD@mylongview.com.