Effective immediately, the City of Sequim bans all recreational fires within the city limits.

The upgrade declaration comes in conjunction with other cities, counties and area fire district bans. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning which includes recreational fires (propane and gas appliances are allowed.)

The city ban follows as the Clallam County fire marshal also has declared recreational fires banned. Fire safety officials are imploring residents to forego tradition and abstain from setting off personal fireworks over this Independence Day holiday as Clallam and Jefferson counties are experiencing drought stricken conditions.

Fireworks caution

The city and fire marshal request that everyone celebrating this holiday with fireworks take extra care and responsibility for the safety of themselves, their family and their neighbors. This especially dry season creates a very high risk of fire from fireworks — all it takes is one spark to ignite a catastrophic event. If fireworks are used, citizens are asked to heed the following guidelines:

• Mow your lawn and open fields.

• Keep your lawn hoses and a portable fire extinguisher nearby.

• Remember that fireworks after ignited are typically out of the user’s control.

• After fireworks are shot, let them cool down to the touch and then immerse them into a nearby pail of water.

• Be a good neighbor – the following day, pick up spent fireworks and dispose of them accordingly.

Fireworks may be used and discharged on:

June 28 – from noon-11 p.m.

June 29-July 3 — from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

July 4 – from 9 a.m.-midnight

July 5 — from 9 a.m.-11 p.m.

Contact City of Sequim Fire Marshal Ann Hall at 681-3445 or ehall@sequimwa.gov with questions.