HomeMy WebLinkAbout062526 email -Press Release_ Jefferson County Urges Caution This Independence DayGood afternoon,
Jefferson County has been under a Moderate Fire Danger rating since May 8 and, notwithstanding potential precipitation in the forecast for the coming weekend, current field conditions
remain dry. As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the Jefferson County Fire Marshal and Fire Chiefs are asking residents and visitors to take fire safety seriously.
A Moderate fire danger rating means fires can start and spread from most accidental causes. Dry vegetation, summer winds, and the use of fireworks are a combination that has led to destructive
fires across the Pacific Northwest in past years. Jefferson County is not immune to that risk. Over the past week, we have witnessed wildfires in neighboring jurisdictions and local
fire authorities successfully contained a fire just outside Port Townsend city limits on June 24, 2026.
This will also be the last Fourth of July before Jefferson County’s recently enacted permanent ban on consumer fireworks takes effect. Fire Officials are asking the community to mark
this year’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday with extra care.
Jefferson County Code (JCC 8.72) prescribes a fire danger rating system connected to atmospheric conditions. A high fire hazard (JCC 8.72.020(6)) is defined as any time when hot, dry
weather and low fuel moisture creates conditions where fires start quickly, spread furiously, burn intensely, and are difficult to control. Fire Officials are continuously monitoring
weather, fuels, and fire behavior and may decide at any time to elevate the fire danger level as local conditions warrant.
During Moderate fire danger, the discharge of consumer fireworks in unincorporated Jefferson County is legal, but only during dates and times set by Washington State law (RCW 70.77.395).
Fireworks discharge outside these dates and times is unlawful. See the table (attached) for dates and permitted hours.
*If a Declaration of High Fire Hazard is issued all fireworks are immediately prohibited, regardless of date or time. Residents should monitor county communications closely for changes
in Fire Danger.
To read the full press release, including safety considerations, visit: JEFFERSON COUNTY URGES CAUTION THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY • Jefferson County, WA <https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/m/newsflash/home/de
tail/1764>
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Thank you,
Liz Anderson
Communications Specialist
Jefferson County
360-774-0554 (direct line)
Ext. 183 for internal use
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Typically available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Out of the office at a training on Friday, June 26.
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