On behalf of everyone at North Kitsap Fire & Rescue as well as Bill’s family, we thank the community for their support following the loss of Firefighter/Paramedic Bill Jerrell. Bill passed away June 6. Although we continue to grieve his loss, we are very comforted by your condolences and sympathy.
– Lead the parade: It’s not too late to get your raffle tickets. All proceeds will go to the Kingston 4th of July Celebration. Purchase your chance(s) to win for $1 per ticket or 6 tickets for $5. Two winners will be drawn at 5 p.m., July 3 at Tiny Town.
One prize will be one of our famous fire station birthday parties. These coveted events include everything to make a memorable celebration — invitations, party favors, party helmets, themed decorations, refreshments, firefighter games and a ride in the engine.
The other prize is a deluxe Kingston 4th of July parade package. One lucky family will get reserved parking for one car at Cup and Muffin and two seats aboard NKF&R’s flagship engine as it leads the parade. The two from the engine will be brought back to Cup and Muffin to join the rest of the family in prime seating to watch the rest of the parade. Cup and Muffin will also serve the group a picnic lunch and/or the beverages of their choice. Buy your tickets at our Paul T. Nichol headquarters fire station, 26642 Miller Bay Road NE near Kingston, during regular business hours, or call us at 297-3619 to arrange a time that’s more convenient for you.
– Outdoor burning: Although Washington state has announced that all outdoor fires — except “recreational” fires in a designated fire pit, comprised of dry seasoned wood or charcoal and less than 3 feet in diameter — will be banned on their lands from July 1 through Sept. 30, the Kitsap County fire marshal announced there will be no local outdoor burning ban until fire danger warrants it.
In the meantime, please remember that all of the regular rules apply. Permits are required for all fires, except those defined as “recreational” and described above. If we ever get summer weather, you can watch our Facebook page (www.facebook/nkfire.htm) and visit our website for burn ban announcements. You can also call our automated burn ban information line at 297-4888.
– Leave fireworks to the professionals: We’d prefer everyone forego private fireworks displays in favor of watching the public displays in Poulsbo and Kingston. Most of the fireworks sold at local Tribal fireworks stands are not legal for discharge off of reservation land. Keep in mind that it’s only legal to discharge any fireworks between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4. Above all, we urge you to celebrate our nation’s birthday safely and with consideration for your neighbors and their pets.
— Michèle Laboda is prevention and community services specialist for North Kitsap Fire & Rescue.
