Fireworks in Seattle are illegal. Even so, as the Fourth of July holiday nears, the war on domestic tranquility in Queen Anne and Magnolia begins.
The Fourth of July fireworks display over Lake Union is considered one of the best in the nation, but for far too many fireworks fans, it’s not enough.
Founding Father John Adams could not have known what he had wrought when he wrote: “It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”
The scales have tipped, big time, toward the latter half of Adams’ sentence. Actually, Adams was writing of July 2, when the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, which bears the date July 4, 1776. Maybe that’s why the detonations begin a few days early across the city, but we doubt it.
On its website, the Seattle Police Department (SPD) states, “The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited.” Violators are subject to a $5,000 fine or up to one year in jail.
SPD is the first to acknowledge, however, that it can’t do much about the illegality. Last year, there were 85 fires and 43 injuries from fireworks in King County around the Fourth — that’s just what was reported.
Previous year’s statistics indicate 40 percent of those hospitalized were under age 15. Sparklers — regarded as training wheels among the fireworks set — were responsible for more than a quarter of all fireworks injuries. Remember, they burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
SPD admits fireworks are treated as low-priority. Those concerned about bombs bursting in air should not call 911 — that line will be busy enough on the Fourth. The non-emergency number is (206) 625-5011.
Each year, the SPD Arson/Bomb Squad destroys large quantities of ordnance. But, in the end, it’s all about self-regulation — a less-than-reassuring buzz phrase, these days.
And remember the animals. This is the time of year when a record number of runaway pets ends up at the Seattle Animal Shelter. Disoriented, panicked dogs can travel long distances and not find their ways home. Cats disappear into closets.
As before battle, hospital emergency rooms are gearing up. If not for the sake of the neighbors, then we make a plea on behalf of the animals and little children’s eyes and fingers.
Shameless, we know. But if that’s what it takes….
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