Every year, fireworks-related fires and injuries increase around the 4th of July despite the fact that the selling, possessing or using fireworks is banned in the City of Seattle and in most cities and towns in King County. In 2011, there were 85 reported fires and 43 reported injuries in King County caused by fireworks.

Young children are at a high risk of being injured from fireworks. Around 40% of people hospitalized for fireworks injuries in 2010 were under the age of 15. Sparklers, which are perceived to be harmless, will burn at 1200 degrees F and can cause severe burns. According to the NFPA, sparklers were responsible for 27% of all fireworks injuries in 2010.

The Seattle Fire Department recommends attending one of the many public fireworks displays to celebrate the holiday. Public Display Fireworks Shows by County