The following is a release from Kent Fire Department RFA and the city of Covington.

It’s no secret that June has been one of the driest and hottest months on record and with temperatures expected to be in the 90’s for the next several days and no rain in sight, fire danger is high for the Fourth of July.

As wildfires and brush fires burn across the state, many residents are urging cities and counties to impose an emergency ban on fireworks out of concern and fear about what effect they could have in these extremely dry conditions. However, cities that do allow fireworks, Covington being one of those, aren’t able to enact any sort of temporary or emergency ban on fireworks due to the way state law is set.

“We encourage residents to impose a self-ban on fireworks this year due to the extreme weather conditions,” said Covington City Manager Regan Bolli. “But, we do understand the tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks and recommend any residents who choose to light them to be over-cautious and follow the laws.”

According to Covington Police Chief Kevin Klason, there will be additional officers added to the normal staffing levels on July 3 and July 4 from the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. “We strongly urge residents to use extra care and caution when discharging their legal fireworks,” says Klason. “Patrols will especially be on the lookout for illegal fireworks use and those caught will face fines and confiscation.”

For residents who do choose to celebrate with fireworks, the Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority offers these tips to help keep safe:

Go see one of the area’s many free firework displays, including the Fourth of July Splash at Lake Meridian and the fireworks at Angle Lake in SeaTac. Both shows begin at 10 p.m.

Only purchase and discharge legal fireworks. Keep in mind that many of the fireworks you buy on Indian reservations are not legal in Covington, Kent and other cities.

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.

Be a good neighbor and clean up any debris from fireworks. Also safely store any matches and lighters so children do not have access to them.

Covington residents should also be aware that, although fireworks went on sale June 28, they can only be discharged on July 4 between the hours of 9 a.m. and midnight. Additionally, discharging fireworks on Covington city property (including parks) as well as on Kent School District properties is prohibited.

If residents see or hear illegal fireworks being discharged, they should call 911. High call volumes on the Fourth of July may delay non-life and property safety responses as life safety issues are the highest priority. Illegal or unwanted fireworks can be dropped off at any Kent Fire Department RFA fire station without penalty or fine.