Yakima, Washington – Vegetation Fire and Building Damage Due to Fireworks

Yakima, Washington (July 4, 2019) – A total of 15 fires  caused by fireworks were recorded by the Yakima Fire Department on the Fourth of July. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in the incidents, the fire has been contained in many of the cases. The damage done by the fires has been limited to vegetation, and in one case a building that sustained minor exterior damage. The Yakima Fire Department’s stations will be accepting unused fireworks and flares for those that want to safely dispose of them.

About Fire

Washington counts as the 5th state most prone to wildfire from 2017 wildfire risk analysis, and ranks 8th in a 2018 study by number of fires that happened. The US Fire Administration has recorded 15 home fire fatalities this year within Washington, showing the destruction fire is capable of doing. Even within city areas, one must be wary of fires that can happen near residential areas.

While this series of fires is tied to a particular holiday, it is prudent to make sure that complete fire safety is followed at all times of the year. If your home is near an area with risk of brush fire, there are few safety reminders to keep in mind. Homeowners are urged to complete their spring cleaning, and to create a defensible space around the home by clearing trees and brush. Additionally, the limbs of trees should be cut to at least 15 feet off the ground. Any object that send out fires should be handled with absolute care. Common objects such as lit matches and cigarette butts can also easily cause a fire within dry brush. Should fire be used in an outdoor space, one must assess the surroundings to make sure fire would not have a possibility to spread out. While the fire is burning, it is imperative that it must be attended to and ensure that the blaze does not go out of control. Finally, before leaving an area where fire was used, one must ensure that any fires must be extinguished completely. Preventing brush fires from happening is everyone’s responsibility, and careful use of fire can ensure the safety of not only one’s self, but hundreds of others.

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Note: The exact locations of the fire have not been provided.