To ensure that you purchase legal consumer fireworks that are both safe and high quality, visit one of the many fireworks stands operating during the Fourth of July fireworks sales period. By law, fireworks stands may only sell approved and legal fireworks.

“Don’t take any chances,” said State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy, “Stay away from high-powered illegal explosive devices such as M80’s or homemade devices.  While the Fourth of July happens only once a year, these devices can cause a life altering injury that can last you a lifetime.”

Top 10 signs that your fireworks may be illegal:

1. They were not purchased from a Washington State licensed fireworks stand;

2. They were purchased through an online vendor, mail order, or a listing on Craigslist ;

3. The person selling you the fireworks tells you they bought it in another state;

4. They are not packaged in brightly colored paper;

5. They do not have any safety warnings or instructions on the packaging;

6. The packaging does not indicate the country of manufacture;

7. It resembles a roll of coins with a fuse coming out the side;

8. It is wrapped with plain brown paper;

9. It is solid red, silver or brown in color and

10. It looks homemade – wrapped in electrical tape or fuse isn’t taped down.

If you know where these illegal explosives devices are being sold, manufactured, or possessed; report it to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives or the local police department on a non-emergency phone number. Only call 911 to report emergencies.

Always remember to use the three B’s of fireworks safety:

• Be prepared—have water nearby and put pets indoors;

• Be safe—only adults should light fireworks and

• Be responsible—clean up fireworks debris.

It is illegal to buy, sell or possess fireworks anywhere in San Juan County without a permit. First time violators may receive a $250 fine.