Kennewick Police: we’re not relaxing fireworks enforcement

KENNEWICK, Wash.-- The city of Kennewick had to cancel its annual River of Fire firworks display due to concerns about COVID-19. The annual event served as an alternative to drive-way fireworks displays, since fireworks are illegal in the city of Kennewick.

"Unfortunately, we expect that people are going to resort to their own means to celebrate the holiday by lighting off fireworks," said Lt. Aaron Clem with the Kennewick Police Department. "What we need people to remember is that in the City of Kennewick, fireworks are illegal to possess, to use, to shoot of into the air or on the ground. That has been the law here in Kennewick for many years."

If you're caught with fireworks, either possessing them or setting them off, you can receive a ticket for $250.00.

We're days away from the 4th of July holiday, and officers have already responded to many calls reporting fireworks use, or reports of suspected gunfire that turned out to be fireworks use.

"Fourth of July is one of the busiest days of the year for our officers," Clem said. "Last year we responded to 90 calls for service on that day alone, related specifically to fireworks use. Officers are busy with their normal calls for service that would happen on any other day. And then they get these calls for service for fireworks, that could taken them away from other work that they could be doing."

Lt. Clem said fireworks calls will take a lower priority over a domestic disturbance or a shoplifting call, and the people setting off the fireworks may have left the area by the time officers to get to the area where they were launching the explosives.

However, when people are caught violating the ban, they can be ticketed, and the fireworks are confiscated and placed into a fire-safe vault until they can be turned over to the Kennewick Fire Department.

The fire department is also gearing up for a busy day on July 4th.

"In addition to causing destructive fires, fireworks are responsible each year for a number of significant injuries across our state," said Kennewick Fire Chief Chad Michael.

Officials encourage Kennewick residents to find alternative ways to celebrate the holiday, by using glow sticks, silly string, or noise makers.

Fireworks use is legal in Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Benton City, and unincorporated areas of Benton County. You're encouraged to only purchase fireworks in the city where you intend to use them, so that you know you're using devices that are legal in that jurisdiction.