OTHELLO — The nation’s 244th birthday will be celebrated with fireworks. They can be fun, and they can be dangerous, especially in dry Central Washington.

Of course, the state has set some limitations on fireworks, and some towns follow the state guidelines, including Royal City and Warden. State regulations allow fireworks to be set off June 28, from noon to 11 p.m.; June 29 through July 3 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight; and July 5, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Any fireworks used must be what state law calls “consumer” fireworks, which are limited to what’s sold in permitted fireworks stands.

Some cities have their own regulations governing fireworks celebrations.

Othello allows fireworks within the city limits, but the city has different rules for the days and hours. People can shoot off fireworks July 1-3 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight.

Fireworks are allowed in Mattawa on July 4 through midnight. People are required to have a working water source available in case of fire. Along with a water source, people should pay attention to the wind direction when shooting off fireworks to keep sparks and embers from blowing where they should not be.

Soap Lake residents will be allowed to shoot off fireworks in a designated area at Smokiam Park, but fireworks are prohibited elsewhere in town.

Fireworks will be allowed until midnight July 4, according to a press release issued by the city. Access to the fireworks discharge area will be on a first-come basis. Spectators are asked to stay in their vehicles, or if they leave the vehicle, to follow social distancing guidelines. Fireworks debris should be thrown away in the designated metal garbage receptacle in the park.

The Columbia Basin Herald recently published information about fireworks in Moses Lake, Ephrata, Quincy and unincorporated areas of Grant County. Visit www.columbiabasinherald.com for more information.

Cheryl Schweizer can be reached via email at [email protected].