Area familes and friends will gather on Saturday, July 4, to celebrate the holiday and watch fireworks. Several public fireworks shows will be held, but those who light their own fireworks are advised to be careful not to injure themselves nor start a fire with this summer’s dryer-than-normal weather.

There were 432 fireworks-related injuries and fires reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office by fire departments and hospitals in 2014. The majority of these incidents occur on July 4. Males age 36 and older sustained the most injuries.

The incidents of greatest concern include:

• 155 fires resulted in $320,240 in damage and property loss. Residential fires resulted in $161,050 in damages – or 50 percent of the total loss.

• 66 injuries were caused by devices which are illegal to own or possess in Washington State.

• Eight sparkler bomb devices caused six multiple trauma injuries, and also resulted in two fires. These devices are considered improvised explosive devices which are illegal to manufacture and possess. Injuries as a result of one of these devices included metal puncture wounds, burns, tearing of the hands, and trauma to the face, chest and legs.

“Never attempt to make your own fireworks,” said State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy.

The office advises those enjoying the fourth to talk with family members about fireworks and safety.

Only responsible adults should light fireworks and be sure to only store fireworks in a secure location, out of reach and sight of curious children. Be sure to have water nearby, to put pets indoors, and to clean up fireworks debris.

Duffy said that purchasing fireworks over the internet is illegal and that in Washington State, fireworks must be purchased from a licensed retail fireworks stand during the legal sales period. Orders for fireworks cannot be placed over the internet or posted on websites such as Craigslist.

David Lynam, fire marshal for Kitsap County, said “It is important to note that the County has already had multiple brush fires this year, including two two-alarm fires in South Kitsap.”

“Moisture content in downed logs is 11 percent lower than it was at this time last year. We are as dry now as we usually are at the end of July. This might just be the year to enjoy a professional show rather than attempting to create your own,” Lynam said.

The authorized firework discharge period is limited to July 4, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. in the unincorporated areas of Kitsap County, Bainbridge Island, the City of Bremerton, and the City of Port Orchard. Fireworks may not be discharged at any other time of the year.

Certain fireworks, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles and skyrockets are strictly prohibited off of tribal lands. Possessing or setting-off these fireworks off tribal land is illegal and subject to civil and criminal penalties of up to $1,000.

For more information about fireworks safety, public fireworks displays and the fireworks laws for your area, check the “Celebrate Safely” website.

Firework safety tips

• Never use fireworks inside your home. Always set them off outdoors on a driveway or sidewalk.

• Put pets indoors.

• Only adults should light fireworks.

• Never consume alcohol or drugs and use fireworks at the same time.

• Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.

• Always have water nearby (A hose or bucket).

• Be aware of other people around you and make sure they are out of range of the firework you are using.

• Never point or shoot fireworks at another person.

• Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

• Do not try to re-ignite a “dud” as it could explode near your hands or face.

• Only light one at a time.

• Do not try to make your own fireworks.

• Clean up fireworks debris. Completely soak used fireworks overnight. Place soaked fireworks in a trash bag and place in an outdoor trash can or take them to your local waste facility.