Fourth of July fireworks lit up more than just the sky in Snohomish County, touching off a series of small fires that had crews racing between shrubs, fences and trees across the north Sound. Firefighters kept the blazes from turning into full-on structure fires, but one tree burned hot enough to melt the siding on a nearby home. Officials said many of the incidents traced back to improperly discarded fireworks.
According to KIRO 7, Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue detailed several incidents in a social media post and warned that some flames were “dangerously close to homes.” Crews reported small brush and landscaping fires, a fence fire and the tree blaze that damaged siding. SRFR told the station that fast alerts from the public helped firefighters stop the flames before they could reach nearby houses.
County Burn Ban Raised Stakes
Per the Snohomish County Fire Marshal, the county was already under a Stage 1 burn ban that began June 22, 2026, tightening rules on outdoor burning and limiting where consumer fireworks can be set off. With dry fuels and warm weather, even small sparks can turn risky in a hurry, and The Washington Post reports that fire activity typically jumps around the July Fourth holiday. Local officials urged residents to stick with professional displays where possible and follow county rules to avoid starting preventable fires.
Safety Steps Officials Recommend
Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue’s safety guidance urges people to skip personal fireworks in areas where they are restricted, use only legal devices, set them on a flat surface away from vegetation and buildings, and thoroughly soak used fireworks before tossing them. National authorities echo those basics: the ATF and industry safety groups advise lighting one device at a time, keeping a bucket of water or a hose close by, and never walking away while embers are still smoldering. Fire officials say those common-sense moves can keep a stray spark from becoming a property-threatening blaze.
If you spot a fire or illegal fireworks in Snohomish County, the Fire Marshal’s office asks that you report the discharge to 425-407-3999, and reserve 911 for situations with an immediate threat. For active flames, call 911, per the county. Fire officials thanked crews for their quick work limiting damage and reminded residents that improperly discarded fireworks remain a frequent ignition source this time of year. For local rules and official safety details, visit the Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s website.
