Anyone who has been in the Kingsgate, Juanita or Finn Hill neighborhoods of Kirkland at night recently knows that the new fireworks ban is not being observed by all of its residents.

Even if annexation had never passed, fireworks would not be allowed this early.

Cracks, booms and bangs are already being heard and it makes many worry that a great number of residents are already ignoring the law.

But the repercussions for such actions will make your day, week or even year fizzle faster than a wet wick.

At first sight of the rockets red glare, Kirkland Police may just confiscate the fireworks. Kirkland Police Department spokesman Rob Saloum said the city’s main focus is to educate citizens and make sure they understand and are aware of the law.

But depending on the individual situation, the penalties can also be as severe as a citation and fine all the way up to being charged with a class C felony for outlawed fireworks. A perpetrator can also be held personally responsible for damage to property resulting from the discharging of fireworks.

The social discussion about personal fireworks has also been an explosive one. Those who love seeing the sparks in the sky and the exhilaration of a a M-80, argue that it takes away their freedom to celebrate our freedom in a way of their choosing. The tradition of personal fireworks has been around for decades and without it the holiday does not seem the same to some.

For others, the sound of a Saturn-Missle Battery makes them cringe in fear for their possessions, no matter how remote, as a stray rocket could set their house ablaze. Some who have pets or very small children feel that it infringes on their rights as the noise and bright lights can make keeping the unaware calm.

The noise also results in many pets running away from their owners each year. To report a lost dog or cat, call the King County Regional Animal Services at 206-296-7387.

No matter where you fall in that debate, the fact remains that the law restricts all personal fireworks within Kirkland City limits.

City officials encourage people who observe violators to call 425-577-5656. Emergency situations should be restricted to 9-1-1.

Kirkland is one of the dwindling numbers of cities to still hold a public fireworks display, along with a community parade through downtown. “Celebrate Kirkland!” is a great tradition for many residents. The event is still attempting to reach its goal of $60,000 for the fireworks display held at Marina Park in downtown Kirkland and is a great alternative to personal fireworks.

Many choose to donate to the cause instead of breaking the law to buy their own.

The city encourages those who intend to attend the festivities to carpool or ride mass transit for both the parade and the fireworks. There is parking available at Marina Park from 6 a.m. to midnight, Heritage Park from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Lake Street will be closed on the Fourth of July. The Marina Park boat launch will also be closed from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the parade and again from 9:30-11 p.m. for the fireworks. And alcohol is not allowed in public spaces, including parks.

The fireworks display will be blasted off from a barge on Lake Washington and will begin at approximately 10:15 p.m. July 4.

No matter what you do to celebrate this Fourth of July, do it with safety in mind. The fifth of July should not be reserved for checking out of a hospital.

For more information regarding fireworks regulations, contact the Kirkland Bureau of Fire Prevention at 425-587-3650.