Kirkland Police, Fire Departments Reminding Citizens of Fireworks Ban

The Kirkland police and fire departments are urging citizens to get a bang out of the annual fireworks show downtown this Fourth of July and reminding them that lighting off fireworks is prohibited inside the city limits.

The non-profit Celebrate Kirkland sponsors the annual Fourth of July Parade (see a gallery of ) and fireworks display, with the festivities centered around .

The fireworks start at 10:15 p.m. and are visible at most waterfront parks in Kirkland. There will be safety zones set up around the Marina Park docks where the public will not be allowed.

The Marina Park (6 a.m. – midnight), Lake Street (6 a.m. -2 p.m.) and (6 a.m. – 2 p.m.) parking lots will be closed for the festivities, so people are being encouraged to carpool.

The city offers the following tips on enjoying a safe Fourth of July.

• Comply with the fireworks ban -- The sale, possession and discharge of all fireworks are prohibited within Kirkland city limits. Compliance last year was spotty in the northern annexation neighborhoods, where lighting off fireworks was legal before June 1, 2011.

• Report fireworks violations -- People observing non-emergency violations of the fireworks ban should contact NORCOM Police Dispatch at 425-577-5656 and a Kirkland police officer will be dispatched when available. In the event of an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

• Keep pets safe -- Fireworks can upset pets. Keep pets inside. Report lost and found pets to Regional Animal Services of King County at 206-296-7387 (PETS).

• No alcohol in parks -- Alcohol is prohibited in all Kirkland public spaces, including parks.

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From a City of Kirkland press release.