PORT ORCHARD — Like dandelions rising from your lawn after a hot summer day, consumer fireworks stands suddenly appeared at grocery store parking lots this weekend. And just days later — on Tuesday— sales of highly regulated fireworks products began around Kitsap County.

County Fire Marshal David Lynam said fireworks are now available for purchase from licensed retailers through July 4. The sale or discharge of fireworks is prohibited, however, on Bainbridge Island.

Lynam said fireworks can be discharged legally on the Fourth of July between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m.

The fire marshal said that if you plan to buy fireworks, make sure to purchase them from your local retailers. He said that way, you will be sure to have only those items legal for sale and to discharge. Some Tribal stands sell fireworks legal to discharge on Tribal land, but illegal elsewhere.

Lynam said the fire situation is much different than last year.

“Weather this year is anticipated to be cooler, overcast, and perhaps a little shower or two,” he said. “Although fire danger is decreased due to the abnormally cool, wet weather this spring, a busy season is still anticipated.”