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Thursday, Jul. 03, 2008
Fireworks laws in Burbank area to be strictly enforced
By Franny White, Herald staff writer
Just across the Snake River from Pasco, the unincorporated Walla Walla County community of Burbank has been a fireworks hot spot for years.
Franklin County bans personal fireworks, while neighboring Benton County has more fireworks restrictions than Walla Walla County.
That makes Burbank a convenient spot for Tri-Citians to set off bright, high-flying fireworks on July 4.
But John Umbarger doesn't like it. The 11-year Burbank resident says revelers from other counties are endangering the rural area's homes, livestock and fields.
"Fireworks are driving us nuts," Umbarger said.
He says out-of-towners often visit Burbank's three fireworks stands, then drive into the country to fire them off on rural roads without water buckets and other safety equipment. They also leave behind trash.
Sheriff Mike Humphreys says about half of the county's fireworks complaints come from the Burbank area. So, this year deputies will be stepping up patrols in Burbank and issuing tickets, if necessary.
It's illegal to shoot fireworks from public roads, school district property and parks, he said, suggesting people get permission from friends in the area to set off fireworks on private property.
"We will be enforcing that very stringently this year," he said.
Those who break the law can be fined $1,025 for potentially dangerous litter, $500 for discharging fireworks in a reckless manner, $250 for discharging fireworks outside the allowed hours and about $100 for impeding traffic.
Fireworks can be legally lit between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. todayand between 9 a.m. and midnight Friday in Walla Walla County.
In the past, Burbank has escaped major fires and injuries from the impromptu displays. Bryan Bauer, assistant chief of Walla Walla Fire District 5, said most people who shoot off fireworks near Burbank are safety-conscious.
"I just really believe the people are being smarter," he said.
But Umbarger's still concerned. He sent an e-mail to county commissioners and other officials this week asking them to ban "the more dangerous fireworks."
He wants the higher-shooting fireworks prohibited in neighboring counties to also be banned there.
Commissioner Greg Tompkins, whose district includes Burbank, said Wednesday that the county is not considering such a ban right now. If restrictions or a ban ever are considered, he said there would be public hearings on the issue.
As for this year, Humphreys and others hope people will use caution.
"We just want them to be safe and enjoy the Fourth of July," Humphreys said, "and also be cognizant of the fact that when they're discharging fireworks, they're affecting other people."
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