The Auburn Police Department is encouraging citizens to celebrate safely on the Fourth of July by attending one of the many public fireworks displays in their area.

There are two community Independence Day celebrations in Auburn. Emerald Downs will hold its Annual Fireworks Spectacular on Friday (visit www.emeralddowns.com for more information) and the City of Auburn will hold its Fourth of July Festival at Les Gove Park from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday (visit www.auburnwa.gov).

“We want our citizens to remember ‘if it goes up or blows up it is illegal in Auburn’,” said Auburn Commander William Pierson.

Auburn police will have 43 officers assigned to enforce the city’s fireworks ordinance by responding to reports of illegal fireworks possession and discharge during this years July 4th season. Valley Regional Fire Authority staff will be actively patrolling areas of the community to provide education on the proper use and handling of fireworks.

Auburn police will cite those using fireworks unlawfully. Upon conviction it may result in a possible fine of up to $1,000 and or 90 days in jail. Those convicted of discharging fireworks recklessly face up to a $5,000 fine and or a year in jail. Anyone caught in possession of a device containing more than 2 grains of pyrotechnic charge (such as an M-80) may be charged with a felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Citizens can assist the City with this stepped up emphasis by calling 911 when fireworks are illegally or recklessly discharged in their neighborhood. Visit the City of Auburn web site for fireworks safety recommendations.