Fireworks use limited locally

It's the Fourth of July weekend, and there's no fireworks show at the Grand Coulee Dam this year, and very few places to light them locally.

- Fireworks are not allowed at North Dam Park due to no one applying for a permit from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

-The city of Grand Coulee allows no fireworks in city limits.

-Electric City follows state law which allows fireworks to be lit within the city limits from noon to 11 p.m. from June 28 until July 4, when they’re allowed from noon to midnight.

-The city of Coulee Dam forbids fireworks year round.

-Elmer City, being on the Colville Indian Reservation, follows tribal code, which restricts ignition of fireworks to Round Lake, near Inchelium, and to Omak Park. Resolution 2020-306 passed by the Colville Business Council approves “the sales and ignition of fireworks for the Fourth of July 2020.”

Sale of consumer fireworks begins June 28, 2020, at 12:00 pm and ends on July 5, 2020, at 9:00 pm, according to a June 22 press release from the State Fire Marshall’s Office.

“A number of cities and counties have restricted or banned the sale and discharge of fireworks,” the release says. “Other counties have modified the type of fireworks that can be purchased. Always be sure to check with your local jurisdiction before purchasing or discharging fireworks.”

“It is likely that many community fireworks displays will be not be held this year due to social distancing requirements. “The SFMO encourages those who purchase fireworks this year to enjoy them safely and gather in compliance with public health guidelines within their individual counties.”

“The SFMO always recommends that you contact your local fire authority or law enforcement for current information on usage, bans, or restrictions. For further information, contact the SFMO at (360) 596-3929 or visit http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fireworks/. “