As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Mercer Island citizens are reminded of the laws and safety regulations regarding the use of private fireworks. The Island is one of the few cities in the area that allows fireworks use without a permit, as most cities in King County do not allow them. Legal “safe and sane” fireworks are only allowed on July 4, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. They may not be used in parks or school district properties. Citizens who would like to use legal fireworks should purchase them from state-licensed stands, which will begin June 28 and go until July 4.

Sky rockets, chasers, missile-type rockets and fire crackers are illegal to possess at any time in Washington state. The State Fire Marshal urges citizens to Be Prepared, Be Safe, and Be Responsible when lighting fireworks, being outdoors, keeping them away from children and pets, having a bucket of water and fire extinguisher nearby and cleaning up after finishing. Wear eye protection and keep things that can burn away from fireworks.

Fireworks disposal will be available at the North end fire station and the police department. Do not put them in plastic bags, but separate the different devices from each other and keep them in paper bags. Do not store unused fireworks in water, as it can result in unexpected ignition. Used fireworks can be placed in water. For information, visit the Mercer Island Fire Department page on www.mercergov.org or call (206) 275-7607 with questions.

Although Mercer Island does not have a public fireworks show on July 4, there will be a show at the Bellevue Family Fourth event, featuring fireworks along with music from the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra. The Island will have its traditional fireworks at Summer Celebration on July 14.