The following is a press release from the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.

July 4 is this week and non-reservation fireworks stands are open for business.

Your firefighters want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday as we celebrate the 242nd birthday of this country.

• Fireworks are not allowed to be sold or discharged in the cities of SeaTac, Kent and Maple Valley. Violators can face a fine of $250.
• Fireworks can be purchased and discharged in Covington, Hobart and unincorporated King County. Discharging on the fourth is allowed until midnight.
• Only purchase and discharge legal fireworks. Many of the fireworks sold at reservation stands are illegal once off reservation lands.
• Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby while discharging fireworks.
• Always discharge fireworks under adult supervision. Remember that fireworks and alcohol consumption do not safely mix.
• When lighting fireworks, wear eye protection and only discharge one firework at a time. Place discharged fireworks in a bucket of water.
• Do not discharge fireworks where ground conditions are dry and the danger of fire is higher.
• Discharging fireworks on any school property is not allowed.
• Consider going and watching one of the many free professional fireworks displays on the fourth.

You can drop off unwanted legal and illegal fireworks at any Puget Sound RFA fire station without penalty. Homemade or altered fireworks should not be handled. Call 911 for disposal.

Please keep in mind that if you call 911 to report the discharging of fireworks, there may be a delay for non-life or property threatening incidents, especially on July 4 due to high call volumes.