Fourth of July: Fireworks 101
Fireworks Time and Place
We know you’re excited to light the fireworks you bought from a local stand — but take a second to review the fireworks rules and regulations for where you live!
- UNIVERSITY PLACE: Legal fireworks can go off from 9am – midnight only on the Fourth of July
- Click here to visit the City of University Place website for more info
- LAKEWOOD: Legal fireworks can go off from 11am – 11pm only on the Fourth of July
- Click here to visit the City of Lakewood website for more info
- STEILACOOM: Firework possession and use is illegal.
Do NOT call 911 to report fireworks complaints — only call 911 if there is a medical emergency, injury, or an active fire.
If you see any violations, report them to FireworksReport.com for University Place, Lakewood and Steilacoom.
Fireworks Compassion
Noisy fireworks and loud celebrations can be triggering for veterans and pets. That’s why it’s so important to light fireworks in the allowed time period to respect our sensitive neighbors.
- For pet owners….
- Leave your pets at home if you’re going to a party, parade, or fireworks show. The last thing you need is your animal getting spooked and running away in an unfamiliar, crowded environment.
- Keep them indoors with toys, treats, and soft music or TV to mask sounds
- Ensure your pet is microchipped or has updated ID tags
- More tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association website
- For veterans and those with PTSD…
- Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
- Prior to the event, make sure you’re prepared and starting in a good state of mind: good sleep, limited alcohol, etc.
- Pause to remind yourself that you are safe and this is temporary, even if the memories create a sense of danger.
- Try box breathing: 4 counts inhale, 4 counts hold, 4 counts exhale, 4 counts hold, repeat.
- Consider if fireworks are even necessary. Try other alternatives, like sparklers or light shows.
- For more tips on how to assist yourself or loved ones, visit this page provided by the National Center for PTSD
Fireworks Safety
- Before fireworks:
- Check that the fireworks you are about to use are legal in your area.
- Carefully read instructions/risks
- Choose a location in a clear, open area away from buildings, vehicles, dry grass, and other flammable materials
- Keep a bucket of water, a hose, and a first-aid kit close-by
- During fireworks:
- Light one at a time
- Never point or throw fireworks
- Do not try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully
- Stay a safe distance away from the firework to prevent injury
- After fireworks:
- Soak all used and unused fireworks in water before disposal
According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 9,700 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in U.S. emergency rooms in just one month in 2023. Children under 15 accounted for 32% of those injuries.
The Fourth of July can be one of the busiest days of the year for firefighters. Fun fizzles fast without safety—celebrate smart, and make it a night to remember for the right reasons.
Thank you to the first responders and dispatchers working the holiday!