Use 9-1-1 for emergency calls only during 4th of July
Non-emergency calls can overwhelm system
Historically during July 4th celebrations, 9-1-1 systems become overloaded with non-emergency calls related to fireworks and other celebrations. Emergency response officials across King County urge citizens NOT to call 9-1-1 unless a life-threatening emergency exits and there is a need for immediate help from police, fire, or medics. “Unnecessary 9-1-1 calls can cause problems for our system,” said Jeff Bowers, Acting Director of the King County Office of Emergency Management. “These calls block other callers who have life-threatening emergencies from reaching 9-1-1 and critical services they need.”
Additional Information:
Firework safety during 4th of July is also always of high importance around the county this time of year. King County officials encourage citizens to celebrate safely this 4th of July by attending one of the many public fireworks displays. According to the Washington State Fire Marshal's 2006 Fireworks Statistical Report, there were 1001 fireworks related injuries and/or fires reported by fire departments and hospital rooms. This is a 17% increase from the previous total of 856, but a 26% increase over the seven-year average of 795. If families do choose to light fireworks they should take all safety precautions. For more information on fireworks safety and regulations please visit http://www.metrokc.gov/permits/fire/fireworks.aspx.